Exodus Reunites with Rob Dukes

The Bay Area thrash titans Exodus dropped a bombshell on their fans this week. Taking to social media, the legendary band announced the departure of their longtime vocalist, Steve “Zetro” Souza, and the return of a familiar face: Rob Dukes.

This isn’t the first time Exodus has made waves with a lineup shift. Zetro, who first joined the band back in 1986 as a replacement for the late Paul Baloff, has had a rollercoaster relationship with the group. His tenure has seen him leave and return multiple times, solidifying his place as one of thrash metal’s most recognizable voices.

Rob Dukes, on the other hand, stepped into the spotlight in 2005 when Zetro exited, fronting Exodus during a critically acclaimed era that saw albums like Shovel Headed Kill Machine. After nearly a decade apart, Zetro returned in 2014, embarking on what fans thought would be his final run with the band.

But now, the thrash legends are turning the page once again. With Dukes back in the fold, anticipation is already building for what this next chapter holds for the band that helped define the Bay Area thrash movement.

Rikki Rockett Sounds Off: Is Rock and Metal Cannibalizing Itself?

Poison drummer Rikki Rockett has sparked a conversation about the future of rock and metal, taking to social media to share his concerns about how negativity within the community is holding the genres back.

In a passionate post, Rockett reflected on the dwindling market share of rock and metal, pointing to online platforms as breeding grounds for criticism and negativity. “Ever wonder why Rock and Metal is now only 6% of the music market share? It’s literally cannibalism!” Rockett declared.

Drawing a parallel to punk rock’s decline, he added, “Punk rock ate itself. We did not learn. Every rock/metal outlet is jammed packed with tons and tons of negative remarks. It’s quickly becoming the soundtrack of the grumpy.”

Rockett believes fans hold the key to revitalizing the genres, urging the community to focus on support rather than critique. His message: positivity and unity could reignite rock and metal’s cultural dominance.

As the rock and metal world digests Rockett’s call to action, one question remains: Can we reshape the narrative and restore the genres to their former glory? Only time will tell.

Roni Lee Unleashes Fiery New EP and Bold Take on “Dirty Diana”

Rock veteran Roni Lee is proving once again why she’s a force to be reckoned with in the music world. Known for her roots in the ’70s Los Angeles punk scene with Venus and the Razorblades and penning tracks for iconic bands like The Runaways, Roni is back with her latest project, the EP Feels Good 2 Be Bad, dropping February 7. Released via her label Play Like A Girl Records in collaboration with Von Artists and The Orchard distribution, the EP promises a powerful blend of feral guitar riffs, haunting violin melodies, and fiery vocals that pack a punch.

The first taste of the EP is her explosive cover of Michael Jackson’s classic, “Dirty Diana.” The single hits all streaming platforms this Friday, January 17, accompanied by a gripping music video directed by Casey Calvert. The video stars rocker Victoria Voxxx as the lead actress and dancer, with much of the footage filmed at the iconic Fremont Country Club rock venue in Las Vegas.

Roni’s reinterpretation of “Dirty Diana” is said to channel raw energy and fierce passion, showcasing her ability to breathe new life into a classic track while making it entirely her own.

Who On Earth Drops Explosive Single “Lobotomy,” Taking Aim at Media Manipulation

New Jersey hard rockers Who On Earth are making waves with their blistering new single, “Lobotomy.” Unflinching and unapologetic, the track takes a hard-hitting stance against the grip of shock media, false news, and political agendas that have left society divided and a generation entranced.

Fueled by blistering riffs and no-holds-barred lyrics, “Lobotomy” is a raw outcry against the endless barrage of digital content that keeps people tethered to their screens, numbing free thought and fostering a culture of disconnection. The band pulls no punches, using their music as a megaphone to amplify a powerful message: break free from the manipulation and reclaim independent thinking.

The band describes “Lobotomy” as a wake-up call, a battle cry to rise above the digital haze and the mindless consumption that dominates modern life. The track combines Who On Earth’s signature hard-hitting sound with thought-provoking commentary, delivering a sonic experience that’s both confrontational and cathartic.

This is hard rock with a message—and it demands to be heard.