Anthrax and Pantera drummer Charlie Benante has broken his silence after missing Anthrax’s show in Greece. He addressed the situation in a statement shared on Instagram.
Benante explained that his absence was due to his commitments with Pantera. He confirmed that he will be rejoining Anthrax for the next date on their European tour. U.K.-based session drummer Darby Todd filled in for him at the Greece show.
“Hey everybody. Just finished the Pantera show with Metallica,” Benante said. “Tomorrow, I’ll fly to Bulgaria to join the Anthrax tour.”
The drummer went on to reassure fans about his upcoming return to the Anthrax lineup.
“We’ll be going across Europe,” he continued. “So, can’t wait for that. See you guys in Sofia on Tuesday.”
Benante’s statement clarifies that his absence was temporary. The drummer is set to reunite with Anthrax as the band continues their European run.
The situation sheds light on the demanding schedule Benante has been managing as a dual touring member of both Anthrax and Pantera. This balancing act has occasionally required logistical adjustments on the road.
As reported by Chaoszine, Charlie Benante was unable to attend Anthrax’s Athens performance because of his touring obligations with Pantera. Darby Todd stepped in as a replacement drummer for the European run. Todd, a U.K.-based session musician with extensive live experience, proved a capable stand-in for the band during Benante’s absence.
The Athens show was not the first time Anthrax had to navigate lineup challenges on the road. The band moved forward without missing a beat, with Todd handling the drumming duties professionally. Video footage of the performance with Todd behind the kit was made available online, drawing attention from fans and media alike.
Benante’s dual role has been a notable talking point in the metal community. He has been an integral part of Pantera’s ongoing touring activity alongside his long-standing position as Anthrax’s drummer. His commitment to both bands has kept him among the busiest drummers in the genre.
With Benante now set to fly to Bulgaria and rejoin Anthrax in Sofia, the band’s European tour is expected to continue as planned. Fans can look forward to seeing the full lineup back in action as the tour progresses across the continent.
