In the wake of the death of guitarist Jeff Hanneman, thrash metal icons Slayer have announced that drummer Paul Bostaph has rejoined on a full-time basis. Bostaph was part of the band as original drummer Dave Lombardo’s replacement from 1992 to 2001. Bassist and vocalist Tom Araya comments:
“Paul’s a great drummer and a good friend, and we’re very happy that he’s decided to rejoin the band. We’re still pretty numb from the loss of Jeff, but we don’t want to disappoint our European and South American fans, and we need to begin moving forward… Having Paul back in the band makes that a whole lot easier.”
Bostaph also comments on his reunion, stating “I’m very excited to be rejoining Slayer. We spent a very intense ten years of our lives together, had a lot of fun, made a lot of great music, so for me, this feels like coming home.”
Dave Lombardo, who rejoined after Bostaph’s departure in 2001, did not participate in Slayer’s recent Australian tour due to a contract dispute with the other members of the group. Filling in for him was Jon Dette of Testament and Anthrax.