MANTAS Announces that CRONOS Has Been Invited to 45th-Anniversary Celebration of VENOM’s …
Founding members of the iconic rock band Venom, guitarist Jeff “Mantas” Dunn and drummer Anthony “Abaddon” Bray, have recently announced plans to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the band’s groundbreaking 1981 album, Welcome To Hell. In celebration of this incredible milestone, the duo intends to participate in several festivals in 2026, such as the renowned Keep It True festival held in Germany.
During an interview conducted by MetalKaoz, Dunn revealed that their former bandmate, Conrad “Cronos” Lant, was extended an invitation to partake in the anniversary festivities. According to Mantas, Cronos declined the offer, stating that it wasn’t worth his time. Despite the nostalgic allure of witnessing classic-era members reunite on stage, Mantas expressed his reluctance to reconnect with Cronos, emphasizing the negative experiences and challenges that such a reunion could entail.
Reflecting on the band’s early days, Mantas highlighted the camaraderie that existed among the band members, emphasizing that their initial focus was on music and collaboration rather than individual contributions or songwriting credits. However, as the group navigated the complexities of the music industry, questions and tensions arose regarding ownership and rightful compensation for creative contributions.
Addressing the legal disputes surrounding the Venom brand, Mantas shed light on a lawsuit filed by Cronos against Abaddon and Plastic Head Music Distribution Ltd. The lawsuit alleged copyright infringement related to the unauthorized use of Venom’s branding and disputed artwork on merchandise sold by the company. This legal conflict underscored the complex dynamics and conflicts within the band.
When discussing the possibility of new material under the Venom moniker, Mantas expressed skepticism about the necessity of releasing a full-length album, questioning whether fans truly desired new music from the band. Citing examples from other iconic rock bands like Kiss and Judas Priest, Mantas pondered the impact and relevance of new music in light of the enduring popularity of classic songs that defined the band’s identity.
While Mantas didn’t rule out the potential for creating new music or recording a single track, he remained uncertain about the demand and enthusiasm for fresh material. Acknowledging the significance of the band’s legacy and the enduring appeal of their classic songs, Mantas emphasized the importance of celebrating the music created by the original members over four decades ago.
In conclusion, as Venom prepares to mark the 45th anniversary of their seminal debut album, Welcome To Hell, the founding members continue to navigate the complexities of their shared history, legal disputes, and creative collaborations. Amidst the uncertainties of the future, the band remains committed to honoring their legacy while contemplating the potential for future musical endeavors.