In a stunning revelation that absolutely no one saw coming, NEVERMORE has resurrected itself from the grave of broken bands and resurfaced with Reigning Phoenix Music, because apparently there’s still money in playing “dead” metal. The lineup now features Jack Cattoi on guitar, Semir Özerkan on bass, and Berzan Önen as the new vocalist, completing the unholy trinity of “Who are these people?” and “Wait, isn’t this band supposed to be dead?”
The band’s first live appearance will take place on April 1, 2026, in Istanbul, Turkey. Yes, April 1st. Because nothing says “we’re definitely back and not a joke” like scheduling your comeback on April Fool’s Day. Bravo, gentlemen. Bravo.
Guitarists Jeff Loomis and Van Williams are apparently thrilled about this whole endeavor, stating they’re “super passionate” about bringing back NEVERMORE. Van even went so far as to say the new music is “delicious,” which raises some concerning questions about what exactly he’s been eating during the writing process. 🎶🎶🎶
Reigning Phoenix Music co-founder Gerado Martinez couldn’t contain his excitement, mentioning he’s been a fan since 1995 when he saw them tour with DEATH. That’s right, the same DEATH that’s also dead. Apparently watching dead bands tour together creates a lifelong obsession with musical necromancy.
Directed by Ola Englund (because of course it was), NEVERMORE released a documentary showcasing their January rehearsals at Swans Neck Soundworks in Sweden. The film features raw performances of tracks like “The River Dragon Has Come” and “Engines Of Hate,” which coincidentally also describe the band’s internal dynamics during their breakup.
For those keeping score at home, NEVERMORE originally split up in 2011 due to “personal differences” with Warrel Dane and Jim Sheppard. Warrel later described the band as “the greatest band that alcohol ever ruined,” which is both poetic and concerning for anyone who’s ever shared a stage with intoxicated musicians.
Speaking of Warrel, he died in December 2017 in Brazil while recording his solo album “Shadow Work”. According to guitarist Johnny Moraes, Warrel had a history of addiction and health issues. His heart attack during the night couldn’t be revived, proving that even in death, Warrel was committed to dramatic exits.
Jeff Loomis and Van Williams have spent years defending their decision to reform without Warrel or Jim Sheppard. Van addressed the Jim situation by saying, “Some people think it’s disrespectful not to involve Jim or inform him of our plans. But those who feel that way don’t know the history of the band.” Translation: “Jim and we don’t talk anymore, and that’s probably for the best.”
Jeff defended the new lineup by stating, “No one can replace Warrel Dane,” which is both respectful and the exact opposite of what they’re trying to do. He added they’re not looking for a Warrel clone, just someone who can “carry the older NEVERMORE tunes in his vocal style.” So… basically a clone, but with different DNA.
The new vocalist, Berzan Önen, apparently impressed Jeff with his audition video. Loomis said he “could really feel the emotion and passion,” and that Berzan wasn’t “just going through the motions.” High praise indeed, though one wonders if Jeff has seen many bad audition tapes.
As for Jim Sheppard, he’s apparently living his best life in Alaska, following bears with his wife Priscila, a wildlife photographer. When asked about the NEVERMORE reunion, Sheppard said, “Van came across self-promoting and Jeff felt very sincere.” He also mentioned being disappointed that no one reached out about using the NEVERMORE name, which represents “blood, sweat and tears.” Well, Jim, maybe if you weren’t busy bear-watching, you could have been part of the conversation.
The band’s history includes an impressive roster of guitarists including Pat O’Brien, Tim Calvert, Steve Smyth, and Chris Broderick, each leaving their mark on the band’s catalog. Jim Sheppard played a central role during the band’s defining years, though apparently not central enough to be consulted about the reunion.
Jeff Loomis spent nearly a decade with ARCH ENEMY, contributing to albums like “Will To Power” and “Deceivers”, though he claims he wasn’t involved in the writing process. He “amicably” left ARCH ENEMY in December 2023 and was replaced by Joey Concepcion. The word “amicably” in metal circles usually means “we hate each other but we’re being professional about it.”
Van Williams remained active through projects like ASHES OF ARES and GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS, proving that even when NEVERMORE was dead, its members couldn’t stay buried for long.
As NEVERMORE steps into 2026, the mission is apparently “grounded in honesty and intensity.” Jeff says they want both old fans and a “new generation of fans.” Good luck with that second part, considering most young metal fans think anything from the 90s is ancient history.
The band’s legacy includes landmark releases like “Dead Heart In A Dead World” and “This Godless Endeavor”, which now seem prophetic given the godless endeavor of trying to continue without their most iconic members.
So there you have it, folks. NEVERMORE is back, and they’re bringing all the drama, controversy, and questionable decisions that made them legendary in the first place. Will it work? Will fans accept the new lineup? Will Jim Sheppard continue his bear-watching career uninterrupted?
Only time will tell. But one thing’s for certain: if this reunion were any more complicated, it would need its own documentary series. Oh wait, it already has one.
Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
