Original Anthrax bassist Dan Lilker will fill in and replace Frank Bello on the iconic heavy metal band’s upcoming tour, which marks a return to the group after leaving 40 years ago.
Bello will not join the band on its upcoming South American dates and festival dates in the United States due to “personal reasons,” according to a press release.
“I’m really looking forward to jamming with Anthrax again,” Lilker said in a statement. “When we parted ways back in 1984, they told me to stick around because they might need me in 40 years.”
“We’re all very excited about with playing with Danny again, and we really appreciate his filling in for Frank,” the band also said in a statement. “It’s been way too long since we played South America, so you don’t want to miss these shows, they’re going to be insane.”
The band also announced the news via an Instagram post which featured a photo of Lilker performing at a previous show.
Lilker was one of the original co-founders of Anthrax in 1981 as the bassist and occasional guitarist. He co-wrote and performed on Anthrax’s 1984 debut album “Fistful of Metal” before saying farewell to fellow bandmates Scott Ian and company.
Lilker and Ian stayed in touch and later formed Stormtroopers of Death with Charlie Benante in 1985. Lilker also filled in as the bassist for thrash metal band Nuclear Assault, grindcore band Brutal Truth, and more.
The U.S. festival shows include Welcome to Rockville May 9 in Daytona Beach, Florida, followed by Sonic Temple May 17 in Columbus, Ohio.
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Saleah Blancaflor may be reached at sblancaflor@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @saleyley and Instagram.