Thrash metal veterans Exodus have welcomed back vocalist Rob Dukes after a decade-long absence, replacing longtime singer Steve “Zetro” Souza. Dukes revealed in a recent interview with Nikki Blakk of 107.7 The Bone that he was surprised by the call to rejoin the San Francisco Bay Area legends, which came around Christmas.
The band is currently in the process of recording the follow-up to their 2021 album, “Persona Non Grata”. Dukes shared that the new record will feature 11 tracks and described the material as “fucking heavy and dark and cool”. Interestingly, he noted a surprising element of “MOTÖRHEAD-y rock stuff” that allows him to “step outside the box a little bit”.
Despite these new elements, Dukes assured fans that “Exodus will always sound like Exodus” due to the unique playing styles of guitarist Gary Holt, drummer Tom Hunting, and guitarist Lee Altus. He added that the new material contains elements of their past work but also breaks new ground, maintaining its “fucking heaviness”. Dukes expressed his honour and privilege to be part of the band again, emphasizing that Exodus continues to “set the bar pretty high when it comes to thrash”.
Reflecting on his return, Dukes explained that he had to consider the life he had built as a car builder and welder but ultimately decided to seize the opportunity. He immediately began preparing for upcoming shows by revisiting the band’s extensive catalogue, particularly as 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of their seminal debut album, “Bonded By Blood”. Dukes acknowledged the challenge of remembering lyrics but felt confident after a recent rehearsal without notes.
Event details
Exodus played their first show with Dukes in nearly 11 years on April 5th at the Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest in Philadelphia.
Guitarist Gary Holt addressed the departure of Steve “Zetro” Souza by stating that it was a private matter, akin to a marriage ending, and that the five members of the band needed to be “on the same page”. He also mentioned that their decision to bring back Dukes was partly due to wanting someone closer to their age, rather than having to “educate some young kid on music that I like”. Holt expressed respect and love for Souza, acknowledging the great music they created together.
Rob Dukes previously fronted Exodus from 2005 to 2014, appearing on four of their studio albums: “Shovel Headed Kill Machine” (2005), “The Atrocity Exhibition… Exhibit A” (2007), “Let There Be Blood” (2008), and “Exhibit B: The Human Condition” (2010). His return marks an exciting new chapter for the thrash metal legends as they work on their latest album and celebrate a significant milestone in their storied career.
