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Testament’s Chris Dovas Shares Drum-Cam Video of ‘D.N.R.’ Live in Melbourne, Australia
Jul
Testament drummer Chris Dovas has shared an electrifying drum-cam video from the band’s recent stop in Melbourne, Australia. The footage, filmed during their performance of “D.N.R. (Do Not Resuscitate)” on June 21 at the Northcote Theatre, offers a front-row seat to Dovas’ technical prowess and stage energy. Watch the full clip below.
From Backup to Breakout: Dovas’ Rise in TESTAMENT
Dovas, formerly of SEVEN SPIRES, joined TESTAMENT in 2022, initially filling in for Dave Lombardo during scheduling conflicts. In a 2023 interview with The Meista – Brews & Tunes, Dovas recalled how it all began:
“I sent them some videos. Then Eric [Peterson] called because Dave had some MISFITS dates. I filled in for about two weeks during The Bay Strikes Back tour, and after that, I got the callback. Now I’m here to stay. It’s an honor.”
That early opportunity turned into a full-time role. As Lombardo’s availability diminished, Dovas proved himself tour after tour — bringing precision, speed, and a youthful energy to the thrash legends.
The Band’s Reaction: “He Brought Life Back”
In an October interview with 96.7 KCAL-FM’s Wired In The Empire, guitarist Eric Peterson shared how Dovas became an integral part of the band:
“When he came in, we were just like, ‘Whoa.’ He brought the energy level up — made us play faster, but in a good way. His groove actually made things easier. It gave the band a shot of adrenaline.”
Peterson also revealed that he and Dovas have been working closely on TESTAMENT’s next album. The project is being mixed by Jens Bogren, the Swedish producer known for his work with OPETH, AMON AMARTH, and KREATOR. The new record will be the follow-up to 2020’s Titans of Creation.
Chuck Billy Praises Dovas’ Influence on New Material
Frontman Chuck Billy echoed the excitement during an interview with Metal Express Radio, highlighting Dovas’ creative impact:
“He’s smart, knows theory, and has an old soul. He’s really pushed Eric [Peterson] creatively. Chris listens to a lot of modern stuff, which has influenced the new songs without copying them. He’s been a driving force.”
Dovas, now 26 and a Berklee College of Music graduate, has proven to be more than just a technical drummer — he’s also a catalyst for the band’s evolving sound.
The Controversial Transition from Lombardo
Dovas replaced Dave Lombardo, who briefly rejoined TESTAMENT in 2022. His exit sparked some behind-the-scenes tension. At a 2023 show in Bogotá, Colombia, Chuck Billy introduced Dovas onstage with a not-so-subtle jab:
“Stand up and take a bow. Give it up for Mr. Chris Dovas. Lombardo who? Yeah. That’s Chris Dovas right there. Don’t forget it.”
While Lombardo’s tenure with TESTAMENT was short, his only recording with the band, The Gathering (1999), remains a fan favorite — and includes “D.N.R.”, the very track Dovas now delivers with precision and power.
Watch the full drum-cam video of “D.N.R.” performed by Chris Dovas live in Melbourne — and experience firsthand why he’s become the backbone of TESTAMENT’s renewed force.
