VENOM Legends Reunite for Special Concert in Tokyo
Announcement by UPP-tone Music
Japanese rock music promoter UPP-tone Music has officially announced a highly anticipated reunion concert featuring former VENOM members Jeff “Mantas” Dunn (guitar) and Antony “Abaddon” Bray (drums). The event is set to take place on November 30 at the iconic Shinjuku Antiknock, a legendary venue in Tokyo, Japan.
Line-Up and Special Guests
According to details from the UPP-tone Music website, Dunn and Bray will perform a selection of “VENOM classics” alongside some of Japan’s leading black metal musicians. The supporting cast includes:
- Masaki “Gezol” Tachi (SABBAT) on bass and vocals
- Mirai Kawashima (SIGH) on vocals
- Shinji “Samm” Tachi (METALUCIFER) on drums
- Noboru “Jero” Sakuma (ABIGAIL) on guitar
The concert will also feature performances from local acts SURVIVE and HELL FREEZES OVER as support acts, ensuring a night full of heavy metal excitement.
Background on Mantas and Abaddon
Jeff “Mantas” Dunn and Antony “Abaddon” Bray, both integral to VENOM’s original lineup, have a rich history within the heavy metal scene. Nearly ten years ago, Dunn co-founded VENOM INC. with Bray and bassist/vocalist Tony “Demolition Man” Dolan. However, in a recent turn of events, Dunn announced his departure from VENOM INC. last December to prioritize his health and family matters after suffering two heart attacks, the first occurring in May 2018, which required a double bypass surgery.
Mantas’ Recent Challenges
Mantas opted out of VENOM INC.’s fall 2023 U.S. tour, citing family concerns after his wife’s cancer diagnosis. Mike Hickey stepped in as his replacement during this challenging time.
VENOM’s Legacy
It is crucial to differentiate VENOM INC. from the original VENOM, which continues to be led by Conrad “Cronos” Lant. This group tours globally and releases new music, while Dunn and Dolan perform under the VENOM INC. banner. The classic VENOM lineup, featuring Dunn, Lant, and Bray, is celebrated for their pivotal albums including:
- “Welcome To Hell” (1981)
- “Black Metal” (1982)
- “At War With Satan” (1984)
- “Possessed” (1985)
Their influence resonates within the heavy metal genre, inspiring bands like METALLICA, BEHEMOTH, and MAYHEM.
Abaddon’s Journey
Abaddon was a foundational member of VENOM from 1978 to 1992, with a brief return in 1995 before joining VENOM INC. His contributions to the band’s legacy include three albums released between 1989 and 1992: “Prime Evil,” “Temples Of Ice,” and “The Waste Lands.” Recently, Bray also revealed a personal health battle, having been diagnosed with lymphoma in September 2022.
Conclusion
The upcoming concert at Shinjuku Antiknock promises to be a memorable event for fans of VENOM and heavy metal in general, as Mantas and Abaddon reunite to celebrate their legacy. With a stellar lineup of Japanese black metal talent supporting them, the show is anticipated to be a landmark moment in the genre’s history.
FAQs
When is the concert taking place?
The concert is scheduled for November 30 at Shinjuku Antiknock in Tokyo, Japan.
Who will be performing alongside Mantas and Abaddon?
They will be joined by Masaki “Gezol” Tachi, Mirai Kawashima, Shinji “Samm” Tachi, and Noboru “Jero” Sakuma, along with support acts SURVIVE and HELL FREEZES OVER.
What is the significance of this concert?
This concert marks a reunion of two iconic members of VENOM, showcasing classic tracks and celebrating their influential legacy in the heavy metal scene.
What health issues have affected Mantas and Abaddon recently?
Mantas has dealt with heart health issues, including two heart attacks, while Abaddon has recently been diagnosed with lymphoma.
