Kam Lee — a key figure in the earliest chapters of death metal — is set to revisit the genre’s origins in a major live project centered on Mantas historic Death By Metal demo. Before Death took shape, Lee performed alongside Chuck Schuldiner and Rick Rozz in Mantas , helping lay the groundwork for what would become one of extreme metal’s most influential movements.
Now, Lee’s post-Death band Massacre will fully resurrect that legacy by performing and re-recording the entire Death By Metal, along with other early Mantas material that hasn’t been played live in more than four decades. The project is designed as a celebration of death metal’s formative years, honoring the songs that helped define the genre at its inception.
Titled “Massacre Plays Mantas Death By Metal Demo,” the set serves as a direct link to death metal history, with Lee returning as the original vocalist and drummer from the legendary recording. Backed by Massacre, he will deliver the demo in its entirety, channeling the raw, unpolished aggression that characterized Florida’s early death metal scene. It marks the first time Lee has performed this seminal material live in full, giving fans a rare opportunity to experience it as it was originally conceived.
The debut performance of “Massacre Plays Mantas Death By Metal Demo” is scheduled for Kill-Town Death Fest XI, taking place September 3–6, 2026, at Pumpehuset in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Event organizers said: “We are beyond elated to announce that Kam Lee and Massacre will be performing the Mantas Death By Metal demo for the very first time ever! Besides being the first performance of this legendary material that lead the way for the formation of Death, it will be the only performance worldwide for all of 2026! This will be a historical moment in death metal history, so be sure not to miss out!”
Kam said: “I’m extremely proud of the material we’ve created. Throughout my career, I’ve consistently felt proud of the legacy and music that Mantas and Death produced. These songs hold a significant place in the history and culture of death metal’s origins. I appreciate the collaborative work we accomplished and recognize it as a substantial part of my legacy, similar to those who contributed to its creation.”
“As Massacre brings these classics to the forefront, our objective is to pay homage to this material through live performances and re-recordings, thus securing its lasting impact.”
“I’m cognizant that my perspective won’t be universally shared, and some individuals may hold unfavorable opinions. However, I don’t invest time in trying to alter the opinions of those with preconceived notions about me, deeming it an exercise in futility. My primary focus is on showcasing this material in a positive light, leveraging the expertise of top-notch musicians to execute these songs impeccably.”
“As always I thank my fans and those who have supported me throughout my journey all these years. Thank you!”
Death By Metal tracklist:
- “Legion of Doom“
“Power of Darkness“ - “Death by Metal“
- “Evil Dead“
