NEVERMORE enters 2026 with purpose, fire, and a clear sense of who they are. Forged in the aftermath of Sanctuary, the band carved out a sound defined by precision musicianship, fearless songwriting, and emotional intensity. From their self-titled debut in 1995 through landmark releases such as Dead Heart in a Dead World and This Godless Endeavor, NEVERMORE built a global following and a reputation as one of modern metal’s most distinctive voices.

Now that legacy moves forward under the leadership of guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams, joined by guitarist Jack Cattoi, bassist Semir Özerkan, and vocalist Berzan Önen. After years apart, the spark that first ignited the band has returned with renewed focus. For Van, the timing feels natural. “It’s been brewing for quite a while and has just started to manifest itself into the now. So what better time is there to kick things off than now?”

The first week of rehearsals confirmed that instinct. “For me personally it’s very different on a lot of levels,” Van says. “We’ve always had an amazing time playing in the past, and now after spending an amazing week of our first ever rehearsals I left relieved, stoked, and motivated more than ever for our first shows.” The atmosphere was immediate and unforced. “Everyone was pretty comfortable right out the gate. We laughed probably more than we actually played. But we played a lot and actually added a few more songs so it was very productive.” That energy translated into a setlist already 25 songs deep, enough material to power multiple headline performances.

Chemistry drove every decision. “Chemistry is everything and it was crucial in these decisions,” Van explains. “Getting together for the first rehearsals just solidified our choices.” The renewed bond carries the same work ethic that defined the band’s rise. “One thing about NEVERMORE, we never really missed any days unless we really had to. The band always gave 110 percent and I can see with this group I’m playing with we will do just that.” He reflects on the creative paths left behind by Warrel Dane. “Warrel left us a lot of different roads to explore within his lyrical content, so whatever the future holds will likely honor and echo some of these paths he’s made us aware of.”

New music is already taking shape. Van smiles at the early results. “If the new music had to be described by one word, that would have to be delicious. Because it’s so good it’s gonna leave you hungry for more.” The writing process is unfolding alongside preparations for the stage, with the band focused equally on honoring the catalog and building what comes next.

The addition of Berzan signaled a powerful evolution. Jeff remembers the first time he saw Berzan’s audition video. “He really stood out strong in so many ways upon a first listen. I could really feel the emotion and passion when I heard him sing for the first time. He wasn’t just going through the motions.” The connection was immediate. “I could tell right away that he was a fan of Warrel’s singing just by the way he delivered and said certain words. I was really blown away at first watch.”

For Jeff, what makes Berzan right for the band lies in both reverence and range. “Each singer has such a distinct tone and style. We really appreciate that Berzan can nail Warrel’s style, but he also has the ability to sing in other styles as well that will push the band in different musical directions.” He sees possibility in that flexibility. “It’s kind of like having different sports cars in a garage. You don’t want to drive just one, you want to take all of them out for a spin.” The core sound remains unmistakable, now expanded with new textures and ideas.

There are unexpected dimensions as well. “He can do some very cool Tibetan monophonic chanting stuff that’s mind blowing,” Jeff says with a laugh. Beyond technique, it is Berzan’s mindset that resonates most. “He’s his own person who doesn’t need to prove anything. He’s really honored to be able to deliver these songs for people and to honor Warrel’s legacy, but also to start a new beginning for NEVERMORE.”

Rehearsals have balanced deep catalog exploration with fresh writing. “We’ve rehearsed 25 songs so far for the upcoming live shows,” Jeff notes. “Between playing and just getting back out in the public eye, we are focused on songwriting as well. These next months will really bring most of the songwriting together to finally complete all the songs.”

The history of NEVERMORE includes an extraordinary lineage of musicians who shaped its evolution. Guitarists Pat O'Brien, Tim Calvert, Steve Smyth, and Chris Broderick each left a distinct imprint on the band’s catalog and live presence. Bassist Jim Sheppard played a central role in shaping the band’s identity during its defining years.

Following the band’s disbandment, Jeff Loomis released the acclaimed solo albums Zero Order Phase and Plains of Oblivion, co founded Conquering Dystopia, and spent nearly a decade as a member of Arch Enemy, contributing to releases including Will to Power and Deceivers. Van Williams remained active through projects such as Ashes of Ares and Ghost Ship Octavius. Warrel Dane continued creating until his passing in 2017, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.

As NEVERMORE steps into 2026, the mission is grounded in honesty and intensity. Jeff captures the heart of it. “Van and I are super passionate about the band. What we deliver and bring back to the audience is us wanting to hear those old tracks again just as much as the fans. We obviously want our old fans there every step of the way, but also look forward to meeting a new generation of fans as well.”

Older. Wiser. Still loud.