Metal Church Return with Revamped Lineup Including Ex-Megadeth Bassist David Ellefson

Veteran heavy metal act Metal Church have returned with a revamped band lineup and a brand-new single titled “F.A.F.O.,” with plans to release a new album in 2026.

Metal Church’s new lineup includes founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof and longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt joined by three new members: ex-Megadeth bassist David Ellefson, drummer Ken Mary, and singer Brian Allen.

“After 45 years, the fact that we have new music coming in 2025 feels like a miracle,” stated Vanderhoof. “There was a time when I honestly didn’t think Metal Church would continue, but we’re back—and this lineup is firing on all cylinders. I can’t tell you how excited I am to have a new single on the way; that alone makes this moment incredibly special.”

He added, “‘F.A.F.O.’ is an aggressive thrasher, and I think the fans are really going to dig it. We certainly do — otherwise it wouldn’t be Metal Church.”

In addition to releasing an as-yet-untitled new album next year, Metal Church plan to tour extensively in 2026, with three European festival dates in August already on the books.

Metal Church formed in San Francisco back in 1980, and were signed to Elektra Records at the urging of Metallica’s Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield. Overall, the band has released 13 albums thus far, with the most recent being 2023’s Congregation of Annihilation.

Sadly, the band has experienced a great deal of tragedy over the years with the deaths of multiple band members, including longtime singer Mike Howe, who took his own life in 2021.

See the video for “F.A.F.O.” below, and stay tuned as details are revealed regarding Metal Church’s upcoming album.