Chuck Billy of Testament Interviewed on The Oath

As Testament prepare to hit the road with Slayer and Carcass for one of the biggest metal tour packages of the year, vocalist Chuck Billy took time to discuss the tour, new music, remaining relevant after thirty years and more.

My first big metal show way back in 1990 was Testament, Megadeth and Judas Priest at Reunion Arena in Dallas. I asked Chuck how he would rank the current tour package among the many they've been a part of in the past.

"It's definitely gonna be, like, the ultimate metal/thrash package," he said of the tour. "Especially, three bands who've definitely been around as long as we all have, still writing great music today. I think it's a great thing."

Even though the band are touring at the moment, Testament plans on releasing the follow up to 2012's Dark Roots of Earth sometime this year. I asked him how far along they are on the album.

By the end of the tour, hopefully, we get right into the studio.

"A lot of the music's done. A few songs, vocally, are written. We're at that process where I'm just fine-tuning the vocals, getting all the melodies sorted, the lyrics written," he said. "By the end of the tour, hopefully, we get right into the studio."

The thing about Testament's music is that they've always maintained a great balance of melody and aggression. The new record, however, is leaning toward the heavier side.

"Eric's definitely got the foot on the pedal a little more than the last record," he offered. "So far, I know there's a lot more blast beats and there's a lot more thrash going on on this record."

Keep an eye on Testament's official website to keep up to speed on the new album and upcoming tour plans.