GARY HOLT Confirms He's Not Part of KERRY KING’s New Project

For fans of Slayer, Exodus, and the broader thrash metal scene, news about band lineups and collaborations can be both exciting and confusing. Recently, guitarist Gary Holt clarified his involvement—or lack thereof—in Kerry King’s latest musical endeavors. If you’re wondering about the current status of these legendary thrash metal icons and what Gary Holt’s role really is, this listicle provides clear, detailed insights into the situation, helping you stay informed and make sense of the ongoing developments.

1. Gary Holt’s Official Statement on His Involvement

In an interview with Metal Hammer published in early 2024, Gary Holt explicitly stated that he is not part of Kerry King’s new project. Holt emphasized his commitment to Exodus and Slayer’s legacy, clarifying that he has no plans to join or collaborate with Kerry King’s latest band. This announcement was significant because fans had speculated about Holt’s potential involvement, given his history with Slayer and close ties to Kerry King.

2. The Background of Kerry King’s New Project

Kerry King announced his new band, titled “Kerry King’s Thrash Revival,” in late 2023. The project aims to explore new thrash metal sounds, with King collaborating with several younger musicians, including former members of other well-known bands. The project has generated buzz because it marks King’s first major musical effort post-Slayer, and fans are eager to see how it compares to his previous work.

3. Why Gary Holt’s Non-Involvement Matters

Gary Holt’s decision not to participate underscores the distinct musical directions the two guitarists are pursuing. Holt’s focus remains on Exodus and Slayer, where he has been a key songwriter and performer. His absence from Kerry King’s project suggests a desire to maintain his current commitments and musical identity, which is important for fans who follow his career closely.

4. How This Clarification Affects Slayer and Exodus Fans

Since Holt is a core member of both Slayer and Exodus, his statement clarifies that fans won’t see him branching into King’s new band. Slayer, in particular, has been on hiatus since 2019, and Holt’s reaffirmation of his dedication to Exodus and Slayer’s legacy reassures fans that he’s not pursuing other projects that could divert his focus from these bands. It also helps manage expectations around potential collaborations or side projects.

5. The Future of Kerry King’s Musical Endeavors

Kerry King’s new project is expected to release an EP in mid-2024, with touring plans to follow. King has expressed enthusiasm about exploring fresh thrash sounds and collaborating with younger musicians, which could bring new energy to his music. However, Holt’s absence means that the project will have a different guitar dynamic than Slayer’s classic sound, emphasizing King’s personal vision.

6. How to Follow the Developments of Both Guitarists

Fans interested in tracking Gary Holt’s activities should follow his official social media accounts and the Exodus website, where he shares updates about upcoming tours, new releases, and personal projects. For Kerry King, updates are available through his official channels and Slayer’s social media pages, which will likely announce new music or live appearances related to his current project.

7. The Impact on Slayer’s Legacy and Future

Holt’s confirmation that he’s not involved in Kerry King’s new project reassures fans that Slayer’s core lineup remains unchanged, at least for now. Although Slayer has been inactive since 2019, Holt and King have both expressed interest in future projects, but not together at this time. This separation allows each guitarist to pursue their own musical visions without confusion or false expectations.

8. Comparing the Musical Styles of Holt and King

Gary Holt is known for his aggressive rhythm work and melodic solos that blend thrash and traditional metal influences, primarily through Exodus and Slayer. Kerry King’s style is characterized by his distinctive pinch-harmonics and chugging riffs, which define Slayer’s sound. The difference in their styles highlights why Holt’s non-involvement in King’s new project is noteworthy; each guitarist has a unique approach that fans value.

9. How to Support Both Artists’ Music

To support Gary Holt, fans should buy Exodus and Slayer albums, attend live shows, and follow his social media for updates. For Kerry King’s new project, purchasing the upcoming EP and attending tour dates will help demonstrate support. Recognizing their individual contributions helps fans appreciate the distinct musical identities each guitarist maintains.

10. What This Means for the Thrash Metal Scene

This clarification exemplifies the clear boundaries and personal choices artists make in their careers. It also highlights the ongoing vitality of thrash metal, with each guitarist pursuing their own projects. Fans can look forward to new releases from both Holt and King, knowing that their paths remain separate, which ultimately benefits the genre’s diversity and creativity.

How to Choose

When deciding which of these musicians or projects to support, consider what aspects of thrash metal you value most—whether it’s Holt’s melodic riffs and songwriting or King’s aggressive style and legacy. Look at the upcoming releases, live performance schedules, and band lineups to see which aligns best with your musical taste. Personal connection to their previous work often guides fans’ preferences, but staying updated on their current activities is key to making an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gary Holt involved in Kerry King’s new project? No, Gary Holt has confirmed he is not part of Kerry King’s new band and remains committed to Exodus and Slayer.
Will Gary Holt ever collaborate with Kerry King again? There’s no current indication of future collaborations, but both artists have expressed respect for each other’s work.
What is Kerry King’s new project called? It is tentatively titled “Kerry King’s Thrash Revival,” with an EP expected in 2024.
Why did Gary Holt decide not to join Kerry King’s project? Holt cited his commitments to Exodus and Slayer, and a desire to focus on his ongoing bands and musical direction.
When will Kerry King’s new music be released? The EP is scheduled for release in mid-2024, with touring plans to follow shortly after.
Are Slayer or Exodus active right now? Slayer has been on hiatus since 2019, but Holt and King have expressed interest in future projects. Exodus remains active with touring and new releases.

Final Thoughts

Gary Holt’s clear statement about not participating in Kerry King’s new project helps fans understand the current landscape of thrash metal’s legendary figures. While it’s disappointing for some fans hoping for collaborations, it also affirms the individual paths each guitarist is pursuing. Both Holt and King continue to shape the genre in their unique ways, and staying informed about their separate projects ensures fans can fully appreciate their ongoing contributions to metal history. Whether supporting Holt’s work with Exodus or King’s upcoming band, fans have plenty to look forward to in the evolving thrash scene.

GARY HOLT Confirms He’s Not Part of KERRY KING’s New Project