Metal Church Debuts New Lineup with David Ellefson and Brian Allen in Reading

The American heavy metal band Metal Church took the stage last night, Saturday July 25, 2024, at Reverb in Reading, Pennsylvania, to showcase its newly announced lineup. The concert featured bassist David Ellefson, formerly of Megadeth, and vocalist Brian Allen, who joined the group earlier this year. The performance was captured by fans and uploaded online, providing a first look at how the revamped roster sounds live. The set opened with the aggressive riff of "Ton Of Bricks," a track from the band's upcoming album, followed by classic cuts such as "Start The Fire" and "Fake Healer." Mid‑set, the band delivered the fan‑favorite "Gods Of Wrath" and the instrumental showcase "F.A.F.O." (Full‑Auto Fire Overdrive). The latter highlighted Ellefson’s precise bass lines, prompting several audience members to shout, "David’s back!" The show continued with "Badlands," "Date With Poverty," and closed with the anthemic "Watch The Children Pray." Speaking to the crowd, Brian Allen said, "We’re honored to be here and to bring this music to our fans in a fresh way" ("Estamos honrados de estar aquí y de llevar esta música a nuestros fans de una manera nueva"). David Ellefson added, "It feels great to be back on stage with such a talented group" ("Se siente genial estar de vuelta en el escenario con un grupo tan talentoso"). Both comments underscored the enthusiasm surrounding the lineup change. Metal Church announced the new formation in March 2024, replacing longtime vocalist Marc Rico and bassist/vocalist Mike LePond. The addition of Ellefson, a veteran of the thrash metal scene, and Allen, known for his work with the progressive metal outfit Rise of the Fallen, signals a strategic shift toward a heavier, more melodic sound. Industry analysts note that the lineup could broaden the band’s appeal, especially among younger fans familiar with Ellefson’s Megadeth legacy. The Reading concert marks the first live appearance of the new members together, offering a glimpse of the band’s direction ahead of their upcoming studio release slated for early 2025. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how the refreshed lineup translates studio material to the stage, potentially setting the tone for Metal Church’s next decade.

Metal Church new lineup performing at Reverb, Reading