Testament is kicking off the new year with a game of musical chairs. It’s been announced that original bassist Greg Christian has once again parted ways with the band. However, replacing him will be a familiar face to Testament fans: Steve Di Giogio.

Testament issued the following statement regarding the bassist swap:

“It is with much respect that we announce our mutual parting with bassist Greg Christian. Metal fretless bass pioneer Steve Di Giorgio 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 unclear as to why Christian has parted ways with Testament, as well as if it has any connection to why he dropped off Testament’s tour with Lamb Of God and Killswitch Engage last year. But as insinuated above, this isn’t the first time he left the group (having left the band in 1996 before rejoining in 2004), and Di Giorgio is one hell of a bassist (having also played in Death, Sadus, Obituary and a ton of others). We’re excited to hear what will come out of the studio with Di Giorgio back in the fold.