The newly reformed lineup of Nevermore has officially withdrawn from the upcoming ProgPower USA XXV festival. The event, scheduled to take place from September 9 to September 12, 2026, at Center Stage in Atlanta, Georgia, will move forward without the progressive metal heavyweights.
The band was forced to cancel their highly anticipated U.S. return due to ongoing administrative delays in securing a work permit for their new vocalist, Berzan Önen.
Addressing the situation today, Friday, March 27, Nevermore released a formal statement directly to their American fanbase via social media to explain the logistical setback.
“A MESSAGE FOR OUR US FANS: We hear your requests for a U.S. tour loud and clear, and we want it to happen just as much as you do,” the band shared. “The reason it hasn’t yet is simple — getting the work permit for our singer is taking much longer than anticipated. We’ll get it done, but unfortunately we aren’t quite there yet. Sadly, it also means that we won’t be able to perform at ProgPower USA this year.”
The group made sure to extend their regrets to the festival’s promoter and staff, adding: “Sincere apologies to Glenn, the ProgPower USA crew and our US fans, and thanks for understanding.”
Despite the disappointing news for North American concertgoers, the band assured listeners that fresh material is currently in the works. They also promised a proper stateside return next year once the visa issues are fully resolved.
“New music is forthcoming, and we’ll finally be back on stages in the States performing it live in 2027. We owe it to all of you and promise we’ll make it worth the wait. In light of all of this, we are actively booking more international shows for later this year. Announcements for those will happen soon,” the statement concluded.
Backed by a new recording contract with Reigning Phoenix Music, the current incarnation of Nevermore features classic instrumentalists Jeff Loomis on guitar and Van Williams on drums. The veteran musicians are joined by the recent additions of Jack Cattoi on second guitar, Semir Özerkan on bass, and Berzan Önen on vocals.
Fans overseas will get the very first look at this revamped roster when Nevermore makes their live debut in Istanbul, Turkey, on April 1, 2026.
