JEFF LOOMIS Talks About NEVERMORE’s 2026 Plans: Classics and New Songs Possible
Jeff Loomis recently announced that Nevermore is set to make a comeback next year in 2026, marking the band’s first appearance in over a decade. Loomis shared the news in a video message, mentioning their upcoming performance at the prestigious Wacken Open Air event. The return of Nevermore comes with a promise of a revamped lineup that includes new band members and possibly new songs while ensuring fans can expect to hear the old classics that have made them a beloved band in the metal scene.
After founder Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams left Nevermore in 2011 due to internal differences, the band’s future seemed uncertain. Vocalist Warrel Dane remained optimistic, stating that the band had not disbanded, but made it clear that continuing without Loomis would be a challenge. The untimely death of Dane in 2017 from a heart attack complicated the potential reunion of the band, although both Loomis and Williams expressed interest in reuniting in the future. Loomis’ exit from his decade-long tenure with Arch Enemy was influenced by his desire to reclaim creative control by reinventing Nevermore.
The return of Nevermore has sparked mixed reactions from fans and former bandmates, with co-founder Jim Sheppard expressing initial disappointment over not being consulted about the decision. Despite the initial tension, the band’s new lineup is a testament to honoring their legacy while charting a new direction for the future. Loomis remains steadfast in his belief that the revitalized Nevermore will surpass previous achievements, promising a bigger and better version of the band that left its mark on the metal world.
As Nevermore prepares for the Wacken Open Air festival in 2026, fans and critics alike eagerly await the band’s latest chapter. The buzz surrounding their return underscores the enduring appeal of their music and the anticipation of witnessing Nevermore’s evolution on stage once again. With the promise of both old favorites and potential new material, Nevermore’s resurrection heralds an exciting new phase in their storied career. The upcoming performance at Wacken Open Air is just the beginning of what promises to be a triumphant return for Nevermore, setting the stage for what is sure to be a milestone event in the world of heavy metal.