Texas doom metal legends SOLITUDE AETURNUS made a powerful statement at 2026 Maryland Deathfest on May 21 in Baltimore, performing with guest vocalist Jason McMaster in place of longtime frontman Robert Lowe, who recently parted ways with the band.
McMaster is a well-seasoned heavy metal veteran — best known for his work with technical thrash pioneers WATCHTOWER and hard rockers DANGEROUS TOYS, as well as guest stints with ACCEPT and ARMORED SAINT. His commanding range and deep roots in the heavy metal underground made him a compelling choice to front SOLITUDE AETURNUS for the occasion. The band had issued a brief statement: "After much consideration, the band has decided to part ways with vocalist Robert Lowe."
Founded in Fort Worth, Texas in 1987, SOLITUDE AETURNUS built their legacy on a string of doom metal milestones: "Into The Depths Of Sorrow" (1991), "Beyond The Crimson Horizon" (1992), and "Downfall" (1996) are records that stand among the finest the genre has produced, drawing comparisons to BLACK SABBATH and Swedish forebears CANDLEMASS. The band reunited in 2024 after an extended hiatus and has been making selective live appearances, including the Up The Hammers festival in Greece.
Their last studio album, "Alone," arrived in 2006 via Massacre Records — nearly two decades ago. While no new recording has been announced, the Maryland Deathfest performance signals the band's desire to keep doom alive and the search for a permanent vocalist to carry the torch forward.
Fan-filmed footage of the full set is available online.