NEVERMORE, the legendary Seattle progressive thrash metal band who reunited last year after a 15-year absence, have been forced to withdraw from ProgPower USA XXV — the prestigious progressive and power metal festival scheduled for September 9–12, 2026 at Center Stage in Atlanta. The reason: ongoing delays in securing a U.S. work permit for their new vocalist, Berzan Önen.
The band issued the following statement: "We are heartbroken to announce that we will not be able to perform at ProgPower USA this year. Getting the work permit for our singer is taking much longer than anticipated, and we have not reached that point yet. We sincerely apologize to Glenn, to the ProgPower crew, and to every fan who was looking forward to seeing us."
Önen, a Turkish citizen, requires a work permit to perform in the United States — a bureaucratic hurdle made increasingly difficult by current immigration timelines. The reunited lineup features original members Jeff Loomis (guitar) and Van Williams (drums) alongside new additions Jack Cattoi (second guitar), Semir Özerkan (bass), and Önen on vocals.
Despite the setback, the band emphasized that new music is forthcoming and that U.S. shows remain a priority — with 2027 now the target for their first American performances since the band's split in 2011. Their international tour continues on schedule, with the first live show of the reunion already having taken place April 1 in Istanbul, Turkey.
NEVERMORE have signed with Reigning Phoenix Music, and Van Williams described the new material as "delicious," promising fans will be hungry for more once it arrives.