Metal Church shares new line-up, new single and announces upcoming album

US metal legends METAL CHURCH return with a revitalized lineup and a hard-hitting new single that reaffirms the sound behind their four-decade legacy. The new formation features founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof alongside longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, joined by bass icon David Ellefson, powerhouse drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic new vocalist Brian Allen.

Fresh off their recent tour and return from Australia, the band found themselves at a creative crossroads — until an unexpected spark reignited Kurdt’s drive to move Metal Church into a bold new chapter. Reconnecting with the musicians who now form the updated lineup led to immediate chemistry in the studio and the creation of the blistering new track “F.A.F.O.”

The official video of “F.A.F.O.” can be seen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X23RO0LjUk8

Produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof and mixed/mastered by Zeuss at Planet Z, the single’s intensity inspired the band to continue writing, ultimately giving rise to a brand-new Metal Church album, scheduled for release in 2026 via Reaper Entertainment in Europe. Further details will be announced soon.

Kurdt Vanderhoof explains:

“After 45 years, the fact that we have new music coming in 2025 feels like a miracle. There was a time when I honestly didn’t think Metal Church would continue, but we’re back—and this lineup is firing on all cylinders. I can’t tell you how excited I am to have a new single on the way; that alone makes this moment incredibly special. ‘F.A.F.O.’ is an aggressive thrasher, and I think the fans are really going to dig it. We certainly do—otherwise it wouldn’t be Metal Church”

Upcoming Tour Dates – 2026

Metal Church will tour extensively in 2026, with festival appearances already confirmed and more to be announced.
Tour information and ticket links: https://www.metalchurchofficial.com

Wed, Aug 5, 2026 — Josefov, Czech Republic — Brutal Assault Festival
Sat, Aug 8, 2026 — Kortrijk, Belgium — Alcatraz Festival
Sun, Aug 9, 2026 — Geiselwind, Germany — Keep It True Festival

Born out of the explosive West Coast metal scene of the early ’80s, Metal Church quickly established themselves as one of the genre’s most formidable and musically sophisticated bands. After signing with Elektra Records, the group released two landmark albums — their self-titled debut Metal Church and its follow-up The Dark — both of which remain essential listening in the heavy metal canon. As the U.S. metal wave surged, Metal Church hit the road with labelmates Metallica, further solidifying their reputation for precision, power, and uncompromising intensity.

Now entering a powerful new chapter, Metal Church features founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof, longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, bass legend David Ellefson, elite drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic vocalist Brian Allen. With renewed energy, a legacy spanning over four decades, and a rapidly expanding worldwide fanbase, Metal Church remains a driving force in modern heavy metal — still pushing forward, still evolving, and still unmistakably Metal Church.