Thrash Metal Legends Unite for Dennis Pepa Cancer Benefit

A special concert titled 'Heal As One: A Benefit For Dennis Pepa' will take place on Sunday, January 24, 2027, at San Francisco's DNA Lounge. The event supports DEATH ANGEL co-founder Dennis Pepa, who is battling Stage 4 duodenal cancer. Proceeds will help cover medical and living expenses for Pepa, his fiancée Gemalyn, and his sons Maddox and Roman.

The concert features an all-star lineup of thrash metal musicians, including current and former members of EXODUS, SLAYER, DEATH ANGEL, TESTAMENT, FORBIDDEN, DRAIN, HEATHEN, NEVERMORE, VAIN, SACRILEGE B.C., SKINLAB and D.R.I. Thrash metal veterans HIRAX will appear as very special guests. Additional performers and a guest emcee will be announced in the coming weeks.

The evening opens with San Francisco punk band P.O.S., fronted by Dennis's son Roman Pepa. Dennis's side project BIG SHRIMP will close the set, uniting two generations of the Pepa family in music. A pop-up shop from Nomadic Inc., founded by Dennis and Gema, will offer organic tinctures, throat sprays, and specialty products.

The official concert poster includes original artwork by Mark DeVito, known for his work with EXODUS, LEGACY, METALLICA, MOTÖRHEAD and THE ROLLING STONES. It also features a hand-drawn Dennis Pepa logo by Ashley Mitchell of VAIN, who designed DEATH ANGEL's original logo. The artwork honors the legacy of Bay Area thrash metal.

Tickets are available at https://www.dnalounge.com/calendar/2027/01-24a.html. Fans unable to attend can participate through merchandise, auctions, raffles, or direct donations via the official campaign at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-dennis-pepa-beat-cancer.