NEVERMORE has shared a second audition video submitted by vocalist Berzan Önen prior to his addition to the band in early 2025.
The reformed lineup also includes guitarist Jeff Loomis, drummer Van Williams, Jack Cattoi on guitar, and Semir Özerkan on bass.
The new version of NEVERMORE will make their first live appearance on April 1, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey.
This show marks a significant milestone for the band as they continue to evolve with their new vocalist Berzan Önen.
In an interview, Jeff Loomis discussed the decision to bring NEVERMORE back and introduce new members to the lineup.
"We're super passionate about the band," he said.
"What we deliver and bring back to the audience is us wanting to hear those old tracks again just as much as the fans." The band has signed a record deal with Reigning Phoenix Music, which will help them create new music and perform live shows.
NEVERMORE's first album with their new vocalist Berzan Önen is already in the works.
NEVERMORE's history includes an extraordinary lineage of musicians who shaped its evolution.
Guitarists Pat O'Brien, Tim Calvert, Steve Smyth, and Chris Broderick each left a distinct imprint on the band's catalog and live presence.
Bassist Jim Sheppard played a central role in shaping the band's identity during its defining years.
Following the band's disbandment, Jeff Loomis released solo albums, including "Zero Order Phase" and "Plains Of Oblivion." Van Williams remained active through projects such as ASHES OF ARES and GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS.
Warrel Dane continued creating until his passing in 2017, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.
As NEVERMORE steps into 2026, the mission is grounded in honesty and intensity.
Jeff captures the heart of it: "We obviously want our old fans there every step of the way, but also look forward to meeting a new generation of fans as well." The instrumental parts for Warrel Dane's posthumous solo album were almost completed when he passed away in 2017.
His follow-up to 2008's "Praises To The War Machine" solo album was also underway.
NEVERMORE effectively split up in 2011 when Loomis and Williams announced their departure from the band due to personal differences with Dane and Sheppard.
Warrel later described NEVERMORE in an interview as "the greatest band that alcohol ever ruined." Dane died on December 7, 2017, in São Paulo, Brazil while recording his posthumous solo studio album.
The musician reportedly had a heart attack during the night and could not be revived.
When Loomis and Williams revealed their plan to launch a 'world search' for a vocalist and bassist for the reformed version of the band, Van addressed Jim's absence from the reunion, saying: "Some people think it's disrespectful not to involve Jim or inform him of our plans.
But those who feel that way don't know the history of the band or the behind-the-scenes dynamics that led to this decision." Sheppard has since spoken about NEVERMORE's return in a statement he released on January 4, 2025, saying: "In my heart, NEVERMORE will always be Warrel, Jeff and I living in a one-room apartment, slaves to an eight-track recording machine, non-stop songwriting insanity.
We were driven, we were hungry...
To quote Dave Mustaine, we were ready to 'smile, eat shit and ask for more!'" True to his word, Sheppard has moved on from NEVERMORE and is now enjoying life in Alaska as a wildlife photographer alongside his wife Priscila.