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Exodus Announces Hiatus After 45 Years, Leaving Future Albums and Tour in Doubt
Thrash metal legends Exodus have announced an indefinite hiatus, sending shockwaves through the global metal community. After 45 years of delivering blistering riffs and shaping the Bay Area thrash movement, the band revealed their decision to step away from the spotlight via an emotional statement shared on their official social media platforms.
The announcement comes at a time when fans were eagerly anticipating two new studio albums slated for release in 2026. Guitarist Gary Holt had recently confirmed the band was recording an ambitious set of 20 to 22 songs, with drummer Tom Hunting already finishing his parts. The band had been simultaneously working on both albums, promising some of their strongest material to date. With the hiatus now in effect, the fate of those albums hangs in the balance, leaving fans anxious and uncertain.
Adding to the confusion is the status of their planned “Swarm of Horror” tour and a series of festival appearances across Europe and North America. While no official cancellations have been announced yet, insiders suggest that the tour is likely to be postponed or shelved altogether.
Compounding the situation was the recent departure of longtime vocalist Steve “Zetro” Souza, who was replaced earlier this year by Rob Dukes, returning to the fold after nearly a decade away. Dukes had just begun performing again with the band during the 40th-anniversary celebration of their iconic debut, Bonded by Blood.
Fans around the world are voicing concern and disappointment across social media, with many hoping the hiatus is temporary and that the albums will still see the light of day. For now, Exodus leaves the stage with their legacy intact — but their future uncertain.
