Drummer Gene Hoglan leaves Testament
Bay Area thrash metal band parts ways with its drummer ahead of the upcoming North American tour.
American drummer Gene Hoglan has parted ways with Bay Area thrash metal veteran band Testament. Gene originally played the drums on Testament’s “Demonic” album from 1997. He returned to the band in 2011 and spent a decade recording and touring with the band. Gene has also played with other acts such as Dark Angel, Death, Opeth, Strapping Young Lad, Devin Townsend, Fear Factory, Forbidden, Anthrax and many more.
Testament released the following statement earlier today:
“To all our Testament fans around the world,
First off, we are beyond grateful to have had Gene Hoglan behind our drum throne for ten years, several albums and countless tour dates. Unfortunately, our brother Gene’s additional tours and solo endeavors in 2022 conflict insurmountably with Testament’s rescheduled dates after two years of lost time due to the pandemic. Rather than Testament having to reschedule upcoming dates (yet again) or Gene having to cancel his own plans, we have decided to amicably part ways. We understand that this announcement will cause some disappointment but rest assured: There is no drama, only the best of vibes between us. As Gene embarks upon a new chapter, we thank him from the bottom of our hearts for bringing the most powerful drum beats to Testament and heavy metal. We have no doubt he will continue to bring it as only he can. Gene will always be family and we ask all of you to join us in wishing him only the best of luck going forward! Also rest assure that we will continue to deliver yet another top notch addition to Testament and will reveal soon! We will see you all on tour very soon! – Testament”
Gene Hoglan made the following statement about his departure:
“It’s been a great ten years folks, and now it’s time for me to move on from the mighty Testament. It merely comes down to the fact that schedules can be challenging to align for in-demand dudes like yours truly. I wish Chuck, Eric, Alex and Stevie D the absolute best of luck as they will continue to crush as always. I’m moving into an exciting new chapter of my career and free agency, with all that it will entail. I’ll freely admit, I’m psyched. And I’m greatly looking forward to all the new opportunities the coming months and years are looking to bring, and again I wish my friends and family in Testament and their crew a fantastic future and all the best in ‘22 and beyond. Thank you gentlemen for a great ride together. Gene”
