Bay Area thrash metal band Testament is already composing material for a follow-up to their 2023 album, Para Bellum, according to a recent interview with frontman Chuck Billy.
Billy revealed to Elliott Fullam of Little Punk People that guitarist Eric Peterson and drummer Chris Contes are actively developing new songs. “Eric and Chris actually have been working on a future record,” Billy stated. “I got a call from Eric yesterday saying ‘Oh, me and Chris got about six more tunes ready to go’ and they already had two to start. So they’re already on their way to another record, ya realize?”
The rapid progression towards a new album comes just four months after the release of Para Bellum, demonstrating the band’s continued creative momentum. MetalSucks.net reported on the development, echoing Billy’s comments regarding the six completed tracks and two additional songs in progress.
During the same interview, Billy reflected on his personal battle with cancer, diagnosed in 2001, as a pivotal moment in his career and the band’s history. He described the experience as “a blessing” because it led to a renewed appreciation for music and a reunion with his bandmates. “That battle with cancer was really a blessing because I really didn’t think I was gonna play music anymore,” Billy said. “I thought it was done, I’d look in the mirror and go ‘That’s not the singer of Testament.’”
The interview similarly touched upon Chuck Billy’s concerns regarding the implications of artificial intelligence. He expressed apprehension about the potential for AI to evolve beyond human control, stating, “AI is playing a part in everything. The scary part is, ya know, when is it too much? And it’s gonna retain too much information and backfire on us and start thinking for itself.”
Testament’s ongoing function on a new album suggests a continued commitment to recording and touring, despite the challenges and reflections prompted by Billy’s health and broader technological concerns.
