Greg Christian Leaves Testament, Steve DiGiorgio Steps In

After a 10-year stint, Testament founder and longtime bassist Greg Christian has once again left the legendary thrash metal band. A reason for the departure has not been given, though the news comes just a few months after Christian had to sit out the group’s North American tour with Lamb of God for personal reasons.

Filling his shoes will be fretless guru Steve DiGiorgio, who also handled bass duties in Testament between 1998 and 2004. Testament made the announcement on their website:

“It is with much respect that we announce our mutual parting with bassist Greg Christian. Metal fretless bass pioneer Steve Di Giorgio will be returning to TESTAMENT. Steve previously was a member of TESTAMENT on The Gathering (1999) as well as First Strike Still Deadly (2001). He will be joining TESTAMENT on their upcoming shows in Australia on the Soundwave Festival, Japan and Mexico City. Steve will also be taking part in the new TESTAMENT album. We are looking forward to continuing the momentum you, the fans, have made possible.”

The band starts their tour on February 22nd in Brisbane, Australia.