Gary Holt Discusses Upcoming EXODUS Album at San Antonio Fear Fest

Exciting New Material on the Horizon

During an interview on November 16, 2025, at the San Antonio Fear Fest, EXODUS guitarist Gary Holt shared thrilling news about the band’s forthcoming album. Speaking with Robb Chavez of Robbs MetalWorks, Holt expressed immense pride in the band’s recently completed follow-up to their 2021 release, “Persona Non Grata.” He revealed, “It’s fucking awesome. It’ll be out next March, I think — March 20 — and it’s fucking awesome. I mean, it’s so awesome.”

Recording Sessions and Future Plans

Holt elaborated that the band has crafted nearly two albums’ worth of material during their latest recording sessions. He stated, “80 percent of the follow-up [to EXODUS’s next album] is done already. We just kept working. We never stopped.” The band spent two months in the studio, often collaborating in a house setting, likening it to a “heavy metal summer camp.” Holt mentioned, “When we started recording, we only had four songs done and a million ideas,” highlighting the collaborative efforts of band members, particularly Lee Altus, who contributed significantly to the new album.

Rob Dukes’ Return and Vocal Performance

Holt also discussed the return of singer Rob Dukes, who replaced Steve “Zetro” Souza in January. He remarked, “It’s fucking been amazing. When you hear [Rob’s] vocals on this new record, you’re gonna shit your pants.” He emphasized the emotional impact of the new material, saying, “Me and [EXODUS drummer] Tom Hunting call each other and [I tell him], when I listen to it, it makes me wanna cry, it’s so good.”

The Essence of the New Album

When asked about what sets the new album apart, Holt explained, “It’s just the songs, dude. It’s all about the songs. I mean, it’s crushing, but it’s all anthems.” He noted the variety within the album, mentioning the spectrum of tempos and styles that encapsulate the essence of EXODUS. “So many different aspects of EXODUS are in there, from the blinding speed to the slowest, heaviest shit we’ve ever done,” he added.

Future Releases and Song Selection

Regarding the second collection of songs that were written during the recent sessions, Holt revealed that they still need to record more. “We have eight songs done,” he shared, expressing the challenges of selecting the final tracks for the album. “I still, to this day, I have panic attacks, like, ‘I should have put that one on it. That song is so sick.'”

Production Insights

At the Aftershock festival in Sacramento, Holt informed attendees that the new material has been mixed by Mark Lewis, known for his work with MEGADETH and DEVILDRIVER. He described the experience as “something else, man… It’s crushing, but it’s also all anthems.” This upcoming release marks a significant departure, as it will be the first EXODUS album mixed by someone other than Andy Sneap in nearly three decades. Holt praised Lewis, stating, “Mark has CRUSHED IT!”

Rob Dukes’ Perspective

In a recent interview, Dukes expressed his enthusiasm for the new material, calling it “killer” and declaring it the best work he has ever done with EXODUS. He noted the album’s unique qualities, saying, “We’ve added so many little different things that it’s still EXODUS, but we’ve definitely stepped outside the box a little bit.”

EXODUS’ Legacy and Influence

While EXODUS often finds itself overlooked in discussions about the “Big Four” of 1980s thrash metal, their 1985 album “Bonded By Blood” remains a seminal influence on the genre, inspiring many bands including TESTAMENT and DEATH ANGEL.

Conclusion

With the excitement surrounding their upcoming album and the return of Rob Dukes, EXODUS is poised to make a significant impact in the metal scene once again. As fans eagerly await the release in March 2026, it’s clear that Holt and the band have poured their hearts and souls into this new material, promising a powerful listening experience.

FAQs

When will the new EXODUS album be released?

The new album is set to be released on March 20, 2026.

Who is mixing the new EXODUS album?

The new album is being mixed by Mark Lewis, marking a departure from longtime mixer Andy Sneap.

What can fans expect from the new material?

Fans can expect a variety of songs that encompass both crushing heavy tracks and anthemic melodies, showcasing different aspects of EXODUS’s sound.

Is Rob Dukes back with EXODUS?

Yes, Rob Dukes has returned as the lead vocalist for EXODUS and has contributed significantly to the upcoming album.