Metal Church Returns with New Album and Single in 2026

Los Angeles, CA — Metal Church is making a strong comeback in 2026 with a new album and single. The iconic band announced their return with founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof, guitarist Rick Van Zandt, former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson, drummer Ken Mary, and Vicious Rumors vocalist Brian Allen joining the lineup.

Their first single, “F.A.F.O.,” is now streaming and produced by Vanderhoof, who collaborated with Chris “Zeuss” Harris for mixing and mastering at Planet Z. The sessions for this single have led to a brand-new Metal Church album, set to be released in 2026 via Rat Pak Records. More details about the album will be revealed soon.

Vanderhoof expressed his excitement about the new music, stating, “After 45 years, the fact that we have new music coming in 2025 feels like a miracle. There was a time when I honestly didn’t think Metal Church would continue, but we’re back — and this lineup is firing on all cylinders. I can’t tell you how excited I am to have a new single on the way; that alone makes this moment incredibly special. ‘F.A.F.O.’ is an aggressive thrasher, and I think the fans are really going to dig it. We certainly do — otherwise it wouldn’t be Metal Church.”

Looking ahead, Metal Church plans to tour extensively in 2026, with festival dates already announced. Confirmed performances include the Czech Brutal Assault Festival on August 5, Alcatraz Festival in Belgium on August 8, and Keep It True Festival in Germany on August 9.