GODSMACK have unveiled the musicians who will fill the vacant spots left by the departures of founding guitarist Tony Rombola and long-serving drummer Shannon Larkin. Guitarist Sam Koltun and drummer Wade Murff will join frontman Sully Erna and bassist Robbie Merrill for the band's upcoming "The Rise Of Rock" 2026 tour.
Rombola and Larkin both retired from touring life on good terms following their final performance together at Mohegan Sun Arena in October 2024. Their exits effectively ended the classic GODSMACK lineup that had been together for roughly three decades. Erna acknowledged the emotional weight of the transition but ultimately respected both musicians' decisions to step away from the demanding road schedule.
Koltun, who previously performed with Dorothy and several other acts, made an immediate impression during auditions. Erna was direct about his qualities: "His attention to detail, his performance, his playing really elevated the frontline. It sounds identical. It's incredible how well he can play the stuff."
Murff brings a solid résumé to the kit, having worked with Daughtry, Prong, Sebastian Bach, and others. His Los Angeles base and experience with major touring acts made him a natural fit for the role.
GODSMACK kick off the North American tour on May 10 in Bristow, Virginia, with support from Stone Temple Pilots and Dorothy. The tour marks a new era for the band — one built on the foundation of their classic groove metal sound, now carried forward by a fresh configuration capable of honouring thirty years of material with authenticity and firepower.