SOmetime in the afternoon of Monday, Jan. 13, Testament took to their website to announce their parting of ways with original bassist Greg Christian and the welcoming of legendary bassist Steve DiGiorgio (Death, Control Denied, Charred Walls of the Damned). The band said:
“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.”
Well that's awesome, though it does suck to see an equally talented bassist such as Christian depart from the group! I'm really excited to see what DiGiorgio contributes to the new album too considering what he's done for the band in he past has been super heavy. Christian also made it known to the metal world that he wasn't done with music and has an awesome new project all lined up. According to a post made on his personal page that has since been taken down but retrieved by Blabbermouth:
"[I am] just home with my 4-year-old, being Dad… and [by the way] I'll have a musical announcement soon. As soon as the vocals are ready… I just don't want to say too much until I can bust it out. And it's dependent on the vocals now."
So in other words, we're getting a new Testament record and something cool from Christian. Killer! Best of luck to all parties involved with the split (and new group)!
