Black Flag Reveals Exciting New Line-Up and Teases First New Music in Over a Decade

Get ready, punk fans! Black Flag is back with a fresh line-up and new music after 12 years, shaking things up in the hardcore scene.

A New Era for Black Flag

Black Flag has announced an exciting new line-up, hinting at their first new music in over a decade! The hardcore punk icons, spearheaded by guitarist and the sole original member Greg Ginn, took to social media on April 25 to unveil this exciting news. The band's most recognized line-up, which included the legendary Henry Rollins on vocals, disbanded back in 1987.

In 2013, Black Flag made their return with Ginn at the forefront, accompanied by early vocalist Ron Reyes. The band released ‘What The…’ before Reyes faced an on-stage dismissal during an Australian concert, leading to skateboarder Mike Vallely stepping in as the new vocalist. Vallely remained with the band until he performed his last show earlier this year in January.

The Band's Shifting Dynamics

In a surprising twist, Ginn even filed a lawsuit against Rollins and his former bandmates over copyright infringement during this period, though the case was later dismissed. Now, it seems the band is ready to turn the page. Their Instagram post boldly declared, “BLACK FLAG is entering a new era,” introducing Max Zanelly as the new vocalist, along with David Rodriguez on bass and Bryce Weston on drums. According to reports, all three members are relatively unknown in the music scene, with Zanelly being described as “a total mystery” by Stereogum.

The post not only introduces the new members but also hints at the band's first new music since ‘What The…’. It shared that the new crew is currently in the studio with Ginn “writing, jamming, and bringing fresh energy.”

“Live shows are coming,” they stated. “New music is coming.”

A Glimpse into the Past

The infamous Rollins lineup of Black Flag produced six albums between 1981 and 1985. After the band’s breakup, Rollins went on to establish the 2.13.61 record label and the Rollins Band, which continued to tour with various line-ups since 1987.

Just last October, Rollins released his latest book, Stay Fanatic!!! Vol. 4 – Lessons In Possession and Confessions of Obsession, where he detailed his thoughts on why he remains retired from making music.

“I have not thought lyrically since about the year 2000, 2001,” he candidly shared. “I’m smart enough to not come back for the encore. Hey, you missed me? I never asked that question. I just leave … I don’t quiet quit. I don’t fade. I just split after every obligation has been met.”

Engaging the Audience

With this fresh lineup and hints at new music, it seems that Black Flag is poised to reclaim their place in the punk rock landscape. Are you excited about their new direction? What are your thoughts on this new lineup? Feel free to share in the comments!

FAQs

• Why did Black Flag change their lineup?
  The change was part of a new era the band is entering, as announced by Greg Ginn.
• Who are the new members of Black Flag?
  The new lineup includes Max Zanelly on vocals, David Rodriguez on bass, and Bryce Weston on drums.
• When can we expect new music from Black Flag?
  The band has teased that new music is coming, with the new members already in the studio with Ginn.
• What was Henry Rollins' role in Black Flag?
  Henry Rollins was the lead vocalist during the band's most popular lineup, contributing to the band's significant impact on punk music.
• Has Black Flag released music since their reunion?
  Yes, they released the album ‘What The…’ in 2013 and have been involved in various projects since then.

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