OVERKILL’s D.D. Verni Sits Out “Thrash Of The Titans” Tour Due to Health Concerns
Interview Insights with D.D. Verni
In a recent interview with Drew Stone on The New York Hardcore Chronicles Live!, OVERKILL bassist D.D. Verni discussed his absence from the current “Thrash Of The Titans” tour alongside TESTAMENT and DESTRUCTION. Verni revealed that his decision to sit out is primarily due to the need for his arm to rest following a recent surgery.
Reasons for Absence
Verni explained, “There’s a few different reasons, but I would say probably the main one at this point is that I just need to kind of rest this arm some.” He emphasized that this tour is not OVERKILL’s, but rather a supporting role for TESTAMENT. After undergoing surgery, he felt it was best to take a step back to avoid further injury. “If I blow it off again, if it tears off again, it’s shoulder replacement, and I’m really trying to avoid that,” he added.
Physical Challenges
Elaborating on his physical condition, Verni described the struggles he has faced with his shoulders, stating, “I had rotator cuff and a bicep tear — on both shoulders. It’s just old-guy shit.” He noted that while he can play guitar standing up, he struggles to play bass while seated, which complicates his participation in live performances.
Current Band Dynamics
Filling the Gap
During Verni’s absence, ex-FEAR FACTORY bassist Christian Olde Wolbers is stepping in to fill the role. The current lineup for the tour consists of Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth on vocals, Olde Wolbers on bass, Jeramie Kling on drums, and Dave Linsk on guitar. Notably, longtime guitarist Derek Tailer is also sitting out for undisclosed reasons.
New Music on the Horizon
Despite his current challenges, Verni confirmed that he remains an active member of OVERKILL. “Oh, yeah,” he stated, revealing that he is in the process of writing new material for an upcoming album. “I have most of the new OVERKILL record done, demoed up, for the most part ready to go,” he shared. The band is aiming for a studio session within the next six months, with a potential release in early 2024.
Future Prospects and Collaborations
Ongoing Projects
Verni’s commitment to OVERKILL’s future is evident as he continues to work on new music despite his health issues. In a previous interview, lead vocalist Bobby Ellsworth mentioned that the band is always in a writing mode, and they are looking to record new material soon.
Previous Fill-Ins and Changes
Christian Olde Wolbers has previously filled in for Verni during a North American tour with KING DIAMOND in 2024. Additionally, for European shows in September, OVERKILL enlisted ex-KREATOR bassist Christian “Speesy” Giesler as a temporary replacement. Verni also took a break during the April 2024 Latin American tour, where former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson stepped in.
Conclusion
D.D. Verni’s absence from the “Thrash Of The Titans” tour highlights the challenges faced by musicians as they navigate health issues while maintaining their creative output. With a dedicated replacement in Olde Wolbers and ongoing work on new material, OVERKILL fans can look forward to both the band’s return to the stage and the release of fresh music in the near future.
FAQs
Why is D.D. Verni not touring with OVERKILL right now?
D.D. Verni is sitting out the tour to allow his arm to rest after recent surgeries on both shoulders.
Who is filling in for D.D. Verni during the tour?
Christian Olde Wolbers, the former bassist of FEAR FACTORY, is temporarily filling in for Verni.
Is D.D. Verni still a member of OVERKILL?
Yes, D.D. Verni confirmed that he is still a full-fledged member of OVERKILL and is actively working on new music.
When can we expect new music from OVERKILL?
The band is aiming for a potential album release in early 2024, possibly around February or March.
