Photo Credit: Elliot Levin
Megadeth has announced a permanent replacement bassist in the wake of David Ellefson’s departure.
In a post made to the band’s Facebook page, it was revealed that former member James LoMenzo would be rejoining the fold on a permanent basis.
“I am thrilled to welcome back James to the Megadeth family,” said frontman Dave Mustaine in the post. “James rejoined the fold as the touring bassist and it’s been a blast having him back. We thought let’s make it permanent.”
Said LoMenzo of his return, “I’m so excited to rejoin Megadeth and move forward full steam into the next phase of this iconic band’s history! With Dave, Kiko and Dirk there’s no stopping us! It just feels great to be home again.”
When Ellefson was fired from Megadeth last year on allegations that he had “adult interactions” with a young woman other than his wife, LoMenzo was hired to play bass on their Metal Tour of the Year tour in his stead.
LoMenzo previously played with Megadeth between 2006 and 2010 and was featured on two of their albums, 2007’s United Abominations and 2009’s Endgame. His tenure began following the departure of James MacDonough, who had in turn replaced Ellefson when the band reunited in 2004. LoMenzo departed in 2010 and was replaced by a returning Ellefson.
In addition to Megadeth, LoMenzo has played with Ozzy Osbourne, Zakk Wylde and White Lion. His most recent gig has been performing with John Fogerty.
Despite touring with the band and becoming a permanent member, LoMenzo will not be featured on Megadeth’s upcoming album, The Sick, The Dying…And The Dead. In April, Mustaine revealed that Testament’s Steve DiGiorgio would be rerecording Ellefson’s bass parts.
The Sick, The Dying…And The Dead is slated to hit shelves July 8. Megadeth will be heading out on tour with Five Finger Death Punch, The Hu and Fire From The Gods for a summer/fall tour beginning August 19 in Portland, OR.
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