Testament in bassist switch

Testament have confirmed the departure of bassist Greg Christian.

“It is with much respect that we announce our mutual parting with bassist Greg Christian,” state the thrash titans. “Metal fretless bass pioneer Steve DiGiorgio will be returning to Testament.

“Steve previously was a member of Testament on The Gathering (1999) as well as First Strike Still Deadly (2001). He will be joining Testament on their upcoming shows in Australia on the Soundwave Festival, Japan and Mexico City. Steve will also be taking part in the new Testament album.

“We are looking forward to continuing the momentum you, the fans, have made possible.”

It’s the second time Greg has left the fold, having originally departed in 1996 after ten years with the band, before returning almost a decade later. A new Testament album is expect to land later this year.

Merlin moved into his role as Executive Editor of Louder in early 2022, following over ten years working at Metal Hammer. While there, he served as Online Editor and Deputy Editor, before being promoted to Editor in 2016. Before joining Metal Hammer, Merlin worked as Associate Editor at Terrorizer Magazine and has previously written for the likes of Classic Rock, Rock Sound, eFestivals and others. Across his career he has interviewed legends including Ozzy Osbourne, Lemmy, Metallica, Iron Maiden (including getting a trip on Ed Force One courtesy of Bruce Dickinson), Guns N' Roses, KISS, Slipknot, System Of A Down and Meat Loaf. He has also presented and produced the Metal Hammer Podcast, presented the Metal Hammer Radio Show and is probably responsible for 90% of all nu metal-related content making it onto the site.