Nevermore Signs with Reigning Phoenix Music
Legendary heavy metal force Nevermore has signed with Reigning Phoenix Music and unveiled a revitalized lineup: guitarist Jack Cattoi, bassist Semir Ă–zerkan, and vocalist Berzan Ă–nen.
Their first live appearance will take place April 1 in Istanbul, Turkey.
Directed and produced by Ola Englund, a new documentary captures the band’s rehearsals and features performances of:
- “The River Dragon Has Come”
- “Engines of Hate”
- “The Heart Collector”
The film also includes an interview with guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams discussing the band’s return, the new members, upcoming 2026 festival appearances, and future plans. Englund has since released a follow-up video sharing his perspective on the comeback as a fan.
A Legacy Reignited
Formed in the aftermath of Sanctuary, Nevermore built a sound defined by precision musicianship, fearless songwriting, and emotional intensity.
From their 1995 self-titled debut through landmark albums Dead Heart in a Dead World and This Godless Endeavor, the band earned a global following and a reputation as one of modern metal’s most distinctive voices.
Now, under the leadership of Jeff Loomis and Van Williams—joined by Jack Cattoi, Semir Özerkan, and Berzan Önen—the legacy continues with renewed focus and fire.
New Music in Motion
For Van Williams, the timing feels right:
“It’s been brewing for quite a while and has just started to manifest itself into the now. So what better time is there to kick things off than now?”
New material is already taking shape.
“If the new music had to be described by one word, that would have to be delicious. Because it’s so good it’s gonna leave you hungry for more.”
The band is balancing fresh songwriting with preparations for the stage—honoring the catalog while building what comes next.
A Powerful New Voice
Jeff Loomis recalls discovering Berzan Ă–nen through his audition:
“He really stood out strong in so many ways upon a first listen. I could really feel the emotion and passion when I heard him sing for the first time. He wasn’t just going through the motions.”
The connection was immediate:
“I could tell right away that he was a fan of Warrel’s singing just by the way he delivered and said certain words. I was really blown away at first watch.”
Honoring the Past
Nevermore’s history includes standout contributions from:
- Pat O’Brien
- Tim Calvert
- Steve Smyth
- Chris Broderick
Bassist Jim Sheppard played a defining role during the band’s formative years.
Following the split, Jeff Loomis released acclaimed solo albums Zero Order Phase and Plains of Oblivion, co-founded Conquering Dystopia, and spent nearly a decade with Arch Enemy, appearing on Will To Power and Deceivers.
Van Williams remained active with Ashes Of Ares and Ghost Ship Octavius.
Warrel Dane continued creating until his passing in 2017, leaving a lasting legacy that still resonates worldwide.