Gary Holt recently discussed Exodus’ new album ‘Goliath’ and what motivates the band to continue working hard after decades in the metal scene. He shared his thoughts in an interview with Loudwire.
The guitarist explained how the band’s perceived underdog status serves as a driving force for their creativity and determination.
“Exodus carries the world’s biggest chip on our shoulders — and it works to our advantage,” Holt said. “We’re never satisfied. The world’s against us and everybody looks down on us…we feel we don’t get the credit.”
Holt acknowledged the band’s past struggles while emphasizing how these challenges continue to fuel their artistic output.
“We’ve had years of self-inflicted damage and dysfunction, but it keeps us motivated to prove ourselves,” he continued. “I’m biased, obviously, but in our 60s, we’re making some of our best music.”
Holt’s comments come at a significant time for the band. They continue to prove their relevance in the thrash metal scene with their latest release.
Wikipedia reported that Exodus released their 13th studio album ‘Goliath’ on March 20, 2026, via Napalm Records. The release marks the return of vocalist Rob Dukes since 2010’s ‘Exhibit B: The Human Condition.’ The album features 10 tracks of ferocious thrash metal and represents the band’s first release on Napalm Records after signing with the label in 2023.
The album has been well-received by critics and fans alike. MetalTalk praised it as a “blistering comeback” with Rob Dukes’ “guttural screams” fitting perfectly with the monstrous riffs from Gary Holt and Lee Altus. The publication called it “one of their best for some time” and proof of Exodus’ ongoing relevance in the metal scene.
Holt’s feelings about being overlooked may stem from the band’s historical position in thrash metal. Despite being Bay Area thrash pioneers whose 1985 debut ‘Bonded by Blood’ was originally recorded in 1984, the album’s delayed release due to various setbacks prevented them from achieving the same level of recognition as some of their contemporaries. MetalTalk noted that had the album been released earlier, it would have elevated their status alongside the top acts of the genre.
The band remains active on the touring circuit, supporting their latest release. The Rock Pit revealed that Exodus is currently touring the U.S. with Megadeth and Anthrax. The tour is followed by UK dates with Kreator and Carcass from late March 2026, including a performance at London’s O2 Brixton Academy on March 27.
Holt’s dedication to the band’s output has been evident in recent years. In 2021, he promised there would be no seven-year gap between albums after ‘Persona Non Grata.’ By June 2023, he confirmed via Instagram that he was already writing material for what would become ‘Goliath’, targeting early 2025 for recording sessions.
