Heavy metal band LAST IN LINE — formed by former members of DIO — are searching for a new vocalist following the departure of longtime frontman ANDREW FREEMAN, bassist PHIL SOUSSAN has confirmed.
FREEMAN, who had fronted the group since its inception, exited in September 2025. In a new interview with Robert Edwards of "Talkin' Bout Rock," SOUSSAN struck an optimistic tone about what comes next. "We've got someone of great interest... we are going to get together very, very soon," he said, adding that the band has been working remotely with a potential candidate. "It's gonna be great. It's gonna be fantastic, because I think it's gonna be a new chapter."
No replacement has yet been officially named, but SOUSSAN indicated an announcement is imminent once in-person sessions confirm the fit.
LAST IN LINE was founded in 2012 by original DIO members Vinny Appice (drums), Vivian Campbell (guitar) and Jimmy Bain (bass) to celebrate the music they made with the late Ronnie James Dio. The project took on new weight after Bain's death in January 2016; SOUSSAN stepped in on bass that same year. Despite the losses, the band has remained productive, issuing three studio albums — "Heavy Crown" (2016), "II" (2019) and "Jericho" (2023).
With Campbell — also of DEF LEPPARD — continuing to drive the guitar work, the addition of a new voice marks the latest turn in a band that has weathered considerable upheaval while keeping the Dio-era spirit alive. A new single or album has not been confirmed, but SOUSSAN's comments suggest fresh material could follow once the lineup is settled.