Dave Lombardo to sit out Testament 2023 tours; focus on Mr. Bungle, Empire State Bastard, and more

Drummer Dave Lombardo (Slayer, Mr. Bungle, Dead Cross) has announced that he will be taking a break from Testament's touring for the remainder of 2023. Lombardo revealed to Blabbermouth that he will be focusing on other musical projects, including Suicidal Tendencies, Misfits, Mr. Bungle, Empire State Bastard, and Satanic Planet.

Speaking about his priorities for the year, Lombardo stated:

My focus is on Bungle... Empire State Bastard... and Satanic Planet. Instead of doing live shows, I really like to just be more on the production and songwriting side with them.

Regarding his future with Testament, Lombardo stated that he was unsure due to his commitments to other bands.

I can't guarantee anything because of my commitments. The relationship is good. The doors are open. The communication is there.

Lombardo fulfilled his contractual commitment with Testament in 2022, but due to scheduling conflicts, he will not be joining them on their upcoming tours for 2023. It appears that drummer Chris Dovas of Seven Spires, who previously filled in for Lombardo on the band's 2022 tour leg, will be taking over Lombardo's drumming duties for Testament's forthcoming dates.