Nevermore guitarist Jeff Loomis recently discussed the band’s plans for new music and their current lineup in an interview with Headbangers News.
Loomis provided details about the band’s timeline for releasing new material and their recent performance activities.
“Now we’re just focusing on new music. So, we’re gonna spend much of May and June and July putting the new record together,” Loomis said. “And we’re hoping by the first quarter of ’27 we’ll have new music done and ready for people to hear, if not just a new single, at least. So that’s what we’re working on right now.”
The guitarist also spoke about the band’s current membership and recent live performances.
“We’re very, very fortunate that we have Mr. Berzan Önen on vocals, Mr. Semir Özerkan on bass, and Mr. Jack Cattoi on guitar. So these are the three new members. And, of course, it’s still me and Van — me on guitar and Van on drums,” he continued. “And, yes, we just had our first show just a few days ago in Istanbul. And it went really, really well. The crowd was phenomenal. They sang along to all the songs and really just made us feel welcome. And now we’re coming down to South America to do some more shows. So we’re really, really excited.”
The Istanbul performance marks a significant milestone for the band. It represents their return to the stage after more than a decade of absence.
The Metallist reported that the April 1 show in Istanbul was Nevermore’s first live performance since their 2011 split due to internal tensions. The band effectively disbanded when Loomis and drummer Van Williams announced their departure due to personal differences with original vocalist Warrel Dane and founding bassist Jim Sheppard.
The choice of Istanbul as their comeback venue was strategic. The Metallist noted that the location was selected due to new vocalist Berzan Önen’s Turkish citizenship. US visa issues have delayed American dates. This practical consideration allowed the reformed lineup to make their debut in a welcoming environment.
The reunion itself has been in the works for some time. Chaoszine revealed that the reformation was first hinted at on December 27, 2024, through a one-minute video featuring various Nevermore-related imagery and silhouettes of Loomis and Williams. This cryptic announcement generated significant speculation among fans about the band’s future.
Looking ahead, the band has secured high-profile touring opportunities. Blabbermouth confirmed that Nevermore will support Judas Priest for seven European shows in September 2026. These dates will provide the reformed lineup with additional opportunities to reconnect with their European fanbase while working on new material.
The band is currently working on new material while continuing their live performance schedule.
