Original Anthrax bassist Dan Lilker returns to band after 40 years
For their upcoming live shows
Last updated 28th Mar 2024
Original Anthrax bassist and co-founding member Dan Lilker is joining forces with the thrash metal band again after 40 years.
Current Anthrax bass player Frank Bello has explained to fans that’s he’s unable to perform at Anthrax’s upcoming shows in Mexico, South America and the US due to “personal reasons.”
The band have drafted in Dan Lilker to replace Bello for the 10 dates that take place in April and May.
Lilker co-founded Anthrax in New York in 1981 with rhythm guitarist Scott Ian, and he performed on their influential debut album, 1984’s ‘Fistful of Metal’, before being ousted from the band.
He went on to co-found Stormtroopers of Death with Anthrax’s Scott Ian and Charlie Benante.
"I'm really looking forward to jamming with Anthrax again," says Lilker. "When we parted ways back in 1984, they told me to stick around because they might need me in 40 years."
Anthrax commented: “We're all very excited about with playing with Danny again, and we really appreciate his filling in for Frank. It's been way too long since we played South America, so you don’t want to miss these shows, they’re going to be insane."
Frank Bello added: "I wanted to let all my friends know that I'm sorry that I won't be coming to play the upcoming Anthrax dates in Mexico, South America or the couple of U.S. festival dates in May.
“Everything's OK, but for personal reasons, I won't be able to make those shows. I want to thank my friend Danny Lilker for stepping in for me; he's gonna rock it! Enjoy the shows. I'm sure they will be great, and I'll look forward to seeing you all soon."
Alongside Anthrax and Stormtroopers of Death, Lilker has also performed with Nuclear Assault, Brutal Truth, Exit-13, Malformed Earthborn, The Ravenous, Overlord Exterminator, and Venomous Concept.
Anthrax’s Charlie Benante will perform with Pantera at Download Festival on Saturday 15th June where they headline the Opus Stage.
In November, Anthrax embark on a thrash-tactic November 2024 UK tour with Kreator and Testament. Tickets are on sale from Planet Rock Tickets now.
Anthrax, Kreator and Testament’s UK tour dates:
NOVEMBER 2024
Manchester O2 Apollo – Thu 21st
Wolverhampton Civic Hall – Fri 22nd
London Eventim Apollo – Sat 23rd
Dublin 3Arena – Mon 25th
Glasgow OVO Hydro – Wed 27th
Buy Anthrax and Kreator tickets
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