Nevermore announce signing to Reigning Phoenix Music with new line-up

Legendary heavy metal powerhouse NEVERMORE have signed with Reigning Phoenix Music. The band also welcomes to the line-up Jack Cattoi on guitar, Semir Özerkan on bass, and new vocalist Berzan Önen. To showcase the new lineup, NEVERMORE‘s first live appearance will take place on April 1st, 2026, in Istanbul, Turkey.

On this new chapter, guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams share: 

“We are thrilled to announce that Nevermore has officially signed with Reigning Phoenix Music! It was obvious from the start that they were the perfect partner for the new era of Nevermore. Their passion for metal music combined with the extensive industry pedigree of their team made the choice easy. We can’t wait to get back on stage in front of our fans in Istanbul on April 1st, and we are just as excited to finish writing and putting together the new Nevermore album!”

Reigning Phoenix Music co-founder Gerado Martinez comments on NEVERMORE joining the RPM roster: 

“There are no words to describe how proud and excited RPM is at the prospect of being part of Nevermore’s next chapter. Having been a fan since 1995 when I saw them on tour with Death, I’ve followed them on their entire musical journey and cannot wait for what is yet to come.”

Directed and produced by Ola Englund, NEVERMORE have released a documentary film showcasing their rehearsals in January of this year at Swans Neck Soundworks in Väderstad, Sweden. Featuring powerful, raw performances of their tracks including “The River Dragon Has Come”, “Engines of Hate” and “The Heart Collector”, it offers an thrilling insight into the band’s new era. 

The film also sees guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams discuss their decision to bring NEVERMORE back, introduce the new members, and reveal their thoughts throughout the audition process. Additionally, Loomis and Williams share news of forthcoming festival appearances across 2026, and future plans for NEVERMORE. Watch here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhW3rdcyip4

NEVERMORE enters 2026 with purpose, fire, and a clear sense of who they are. Forged in the aftermath of Sanctuary, the band carved out a sound defined by precision musicianship, fearless songwriting, and emotional intensity. From their self-titled debut in 1995 through landmark releases such as Dead Heart in a Dead World and This Godless Endeavor, NEVERMORE built a global following and a reputation as one of modern metal’s most distinctive voices.

Now that legacy moves forward under the leadership of guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams, joined by guitarist Jack Cattoi, bassist Semir Özerkan , and vocalist Berzan Önen. After years apart, the spark that first ignited the band has returned with renewed focus. For Van, the timing feels natural. “It’s been brewing for quite a while and has just started to manifest itself into the now. So what better time is there to kick things off than now?”

New music is already taking shape. Van smiles at the early results. “If the new music had to be described by one word, that would have to be delicious. Because it’s so good it’s gonna leave you hungry for more.” The writing process is unfolding alongside preparations for the stage, with the band focused equally on honoring the catalog and building what comes next.

The addition of Berzan signaled a powerful evolution. Jeff remembers the first time he saw Berzan’s audition video. “He really stood out strong in so many ways upon a first listen. I could really feel the emotion and passion when I heard him sing for the first time. He wasn’t just going through the motions.” The connection was immediate. “I could tell right away that he was a fan of Warrel’s singing just by the way he delivered and said certain words. I was really blown away at first watch.”

The history of NEVERMORE includes an extraordinary lineage of musicians who shaped its evolution. Guitarists Pat O’Brien, Tim Calvert, Steve Smyth, and Chris Broderick each left a distinct imprint on the band’s catalog and live presence. Bassist Jim Sheppard played a central role in shaping the band’s identity during its defining years.

Following the band’s disbandment, Jeff Loomis released the acclaimed solo albums Zero Order Phase and Plains of Oblivion, co founded CONQUERING DYSTOPIA, and spent nearly a decade as a member of ARCH ENEMY, contributing to releases including Will to Power and Deceivers. Van Williams remained active through projects such as ASHES OF ARES and GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS. Warrel Dane continued creating until his passing in 2017, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.

As NEVERMORE steps into 2026, the mission is grounded in honesty and intensity. Jeff captures the heart of it. “Van and I are super passionate about the band. What we deliver and bring back to the audience is us wanting to hear those old tracks again just as much as the fans. We obviously want our old fans there every step of the way, but also look forward to meeting a new generation of fans as well.”

Older. Wiser. Still loud.