Thrash metal veterans Sacred Reich have announced the departure of drummer Dave McClain. The band confirmed the lineup change, marking the end of McClain's second tenure with the group, which began with his return in 2018.
While the search for a permanent replacement is underway, Sacred Reich has tapped Eduardo Baldo to fill in on drums for their upcoming European tour dates supporting Hatebreed this November. The band is also moving forward with a new album, expected in 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Drummer Dave McClain has officially left the band Sacred Reich.
- This was McClain's second stint with the group, following his return in 2018.
- Eduardo Baldo will serve as the temporary drummer for the band's November European tour.
- Sacred Reich is currently working on a new album, "Into the Abyss," scheduled for a Spring 2026 release.
A Sudden Lineup Change
Sacred Reich confirmed the news of McClain's departure in an official statement, bringing his eight-year reunion with the band to a close. The announcement came as a surprise to many fans who have followed the group since their celebrated comeback.
In their statement, the band expressed well wishes for their former member while signaling a clear focus on the future.
"Dave McClain is no longer a member of Sacred Reich. We wish him the best," the band stated. "We are excited for this new chapter in Sacred Reich history."
The reasons behind McClain's exit have not been made public. The band's message focused on gratitude and forward momentum, ensuring fans that their plans for new music and touring remain firmly in place.
McClain's History with the Band
Dave McClain's relationship with Sacred Reich has been a significant part of the band's history. He first joined in 1991, playing on the influential albums Independent and Heal. He left the band in 1995 before rejoining in 2018, contributing to their acclaimed 2019 comeback album, Awakening.
Immediate Plans and European Tour
Despite the change, Sacred Reich is not slowing down. The band has a series of European shows scheduled for November, where they will be supporting metalcore giants Hatebreed. To handle drumming duties, they have enlisted the help of their friend, Eduardo Baldo.
The band acknowledged the last-minute nature of the arrangement and expressed their gratitude.
"Our friend Eduardo Baldo will be playing the Hatebreed shows with us in November in Europe," the statement continued. "We thank him for jumping in on such short notice."
Upcoming European Tour Dates (with Hatebreed)
- November 15 - Eindhoven, NL @ Helldorado
- November 16 - Herford, DE @ Kulturwerk Herford
- November 17 - Aalborg, DK @ Skråen
- November 18 - Bremen, DE @ Aladin Music Hall
- November 19 - Wrocław, PL @ Zaklęte Rewiry
- November 20 - Leipzig, DE @ Felsenkeller (Ballsaal)
- November 21 - Geiselwind, DE @ Eventzentrum
- November 22 - Eindhoven, NL @ Revolution Calling Festival
This tour will be the first opportunity for fans to see the band perform with Baldo behind the kit and will serve as a preview of the group's current live dynamic.
A Veteran Drummer's Legacy
Dave McClain's career is extensive. Beyond his work with Sacred Reich, he is widely known for his long tenure with Machine Head, where he played from 1995 until 2018. His powerful and precise drumming style has been a hallmark of every project he has been involved with.
New Album "Into the Abyss" on the Horizon
Perhaps the most exciting news for fans is the confirmation of a new studio album. Sacred Reich revealed they are deep into the process of creating their next record, titled "Into the Abyss."
The album is slated for a Spring 2026 release through their longtime label, Metal Blade Records. This will be the follow-up to 2019's Awakening, which was the band's first new album in 23 years and received widespread critical acclaim for successfully modernizing their classic thrash sound.
The announcement confirms that the band's creative core remains intact and focused on delivering new music. The upcoming album will mark the recorded debut of a new drummer, making it a highly anticipated release for the thrash metal community.
As Sacred Reich closes one chapter, they are already writing the next. With a tour on the immediate horizon and a new album in the works, the band is poised to continue its powerful legacy, proving their resilience and dedication to their music and fans.