All over the past several months, the metal maximalists from Serbia OATHBRINGER, often make the headlines (on THENWOTHM included), being active in the studio and on the road, defending their name as one of the leading bands on the Balkan heavy scene and beyond. Seems those folks have a lot of things going on around them and recently a sudden news hit the social media.

After disclosing details and visuals around their forthcoming record “Tales of Valor” targeted to be released in January 2024, strikingly Igor “Jimmy” Stanic’s departure was publicly announced several weeks ago. Personal reasons were pointed out as the main reason for this unfortunate turn of events, yet the band kindheartedly stated they “continue to consider him an integral part of the OATHBRINGER family”.

And as frequently turns out in live, both personal and artistic, less means more and the band wasted no time for compensating the gap, invited not one, but two new members in their ranks. Practically “OATHBRINGER” scaled up, transforming from a quartet into a five-star formation, literally overnight. Main motive for the move – “to maintain band’s momentum and artistic integrity”. Hats down for this bold statement and keeping strong commitment to their metal mission. Petar “Axxer” Đorđević, a seasoned solo guitarist, has made a triumphant comeback to the band.

A founding member since early 2020, Axxer played a pivotal role in the creation OATHBRINGER’s debut album, “Tales of Glory.” He also contributed to the recording of the band’s first single from their upcoming album “Tales of Valor,” set to release in January 2024. In February 2023, due to personal reasons, Axxer decided to part ways with OATHBRINGER, making room for a fresh face.

Stepping into the shoes of Axxer was none other than Igor “Jimmy Rage” Stanić. Jimmy Rage quickly integrated with the band, participating in the completion of the new album and performing at various concerts. However, by late June of this year, Jimmy decided to step down from the band. Thestory takes a twist as OATHBRINGER reunited with Axxer, reaching out to him to join them for a performance at the Running Free Festival in Bulgaria. The chemistry was undeniable. The lineup reshuffle didn’t end there.

Aleksandar “RapidBasstard” Milutinović emerged as a notable addition. A well- known figure in the Serbian metal scene, he’s actively part of Kragujevac’s thrash metal act, Deadly Mosh, and previously collaborated with the death metal pioneers, Dead Joker. His connection with the current Oathbringer members played a significant role in his invitation to join the crew.

Following an impressive performance at the Running Free Festival in Bulgaria, the band made a strategic decision. Former bassist and vocalist, Miloš “Priestkiller” Stošić, will now focus exclusively on vocals, enhancing his interaction with the audience. It’s now official that Axxer will take up the role of Solo Guitarist, and RapidBasstard will handle the Bass Guitar duties.This change marks an exciting new chapter for OATHBRINGER, as they look ahead to their forthcoming album and a promising future in the heavy metal realm.

Stay tuned for more updates as OATHBRINGER prepares to unleash “Tales of Valor” in January 2024 with their revamped lineup.