The indefatigable Dave Lombardo’s bona fides as a world-class drummer are well-known. While he drafted the blueprint that would define thrash-metal drumming, he’s also applied his finesse to solo percussion (2023’s Rites Of Percussion), hip hop and classical music, as well as boundary-pushing recordings and performances with everyone from John Zorn’s ensembles to punk icons Misfits and Mr. Bungle. Canadian-born Paula Lombardo began her musical career at 18 as a backing singer for Las Vegas icon Wayne Newton, performing multiple shows in the demanding Vegas circuit before relocating to Nashville to further her musical career. A dynamic musical force, she combines impressive vocal prowess, a deftness on piano and synthesizers with a natural instinct for crafting alluring lyrics, melodies and arrangements. Together, Dave and Paula make up Venamoris, a lyrically-heavy anomaly that leaves no emotion untouched.
After a string of mysterious and intriguing single releases throughout the final few months of the year, Venamoris are now excited to announce their sophomore record, To Cross Or To Burn, with an accompanying video for single “Animal Magnetism”, a cover of the beloved Scorpions song, featuring a guest appearance from Gary Holt (Exodus, Slayer). Scorpions hold a special place in Venamoris’ heart, as the legendary rock band was Dave Lombardo’s first ever concert. The band will be celebrating their 60th anniversary with a Vegas residency that starts the day before Venamoris’ record comes out – a beautiful moment of rock ‘n’ roll alchemy.
About the track, Dave says, “My first concert was May 25, 1980. Scorpions opening for Ted Nugent’s ‘Scream Dream’ tour. We (Slayer) had covered a couple Scorpions songs in the early years, but I never would have thought of re-imagining one of their songs at that time. Now it seems like the most natural thing to do. The idea to re-create ‘Animal Magnetism’ came to me late one night. I could hear Paula’s sultry voice, the song taking on a slightly industrial feel… and I could fully hear Gary Holt play this insane lead. It’s been really incredible to see this idea come to life. We recorded this track without knowing if/when it would ever see the light of day. To release this at the same time this iconic band is celebrating 60 years is a perfect way for me to thank them for an inspiring first show in 1980… and for all they have contributed since”. About the record as a whole, Paula adds, “To Cross or To Burn has taken us down a darker, very different path than our first album. There’s a confidence in this body of work. An overall vibe of heaviness that was unexpected. Verses of hard truths now bound in acceptance. The soul-searching continues.”
To Cross Or To Burn will be released on February 28th via Ipecac Recordings. Pre-orders are now available here.
Photo credit: Hannah Verbeuren
