Testament in Spain: Bay Area Thrash Metal Up Close in Pamplona and Zaragoza
Testament are one of the bands that built thrash metal from the ground up. Founded in Berkeley, California in 1983, they were part of a small group of acts that defined the genre in the late 1980s — and unlike many of their contemporaries, they never stopped. Fourteen studio albums in, the band remains as sharp and driven as ever. The Legacy (1987) and The New Order (1988) were inducted into Decibel Magazine’s Hall of Fame alongside records by Metallica and Black Sabbath. Now, in the summer of 2026, Testament come to Spain with two rare club-format dates — and a new album that may be among the most aggressive of their career.
“Para Bellum” (Nuclear Blast, October 2025) takes its name from the Latin phrase “Si vis pacem, para bellum” — “if you want peace, prepare for war.” The fourteenth studio album was recorded with new drummer Chris Dovas, whose speed and dynamic range inject fresh energy into the band’s signature sound, and mixed by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios. The record covers vast ground: relentless thrash metal attacks, atmospheric passages, and — for the first time in many years — a ballad featuring real orchestral strings. Chuck Billy, Eric Peterson and Alex Skolnick remain the core that keeps Testament at the forefront of heavy music globally.
On 3 July 2026, the Route Resurrection: Thrash Attack! tour hits Pamplona at Sala Tótem. On 7 July 2026, the band plays Zaragoza at Teatro de Las Esquinas. Both are exclusive club shows, separate from their appearance at Resurrection Fest. Special guest at both dates is Hellripper — the black and speed metal solo project of British musician James McBain, who founded the band at age 18 and arrives with a new album. Tickets are limited.
