After a decade-long run fronting thrash legends Exodus, Steve “Zetro” Souza is out, and former vocalist Rob Dukes is back behind the mic. In a move that surprised longtime fans, Exodus announced the lineup change on social media, signaling another shift in the band’s ever-evolving frontman saga.
“Exodus have parted ways with Steve ‘Zetro’ Souza,” the band wrote. “We thank Steve for his years fronting the band and all the killer music we made during that time. We wish him only the best in the future and much success with anything he does.”
The change marks a return to familiar territory. Dukes previously led Exodus between 2005 and 2014, a period that saw the release of three studio albums: “Shovel Headed Kill Machine” (2005), “The Atrocity Exhibition… Exhibit A” (2007), and “Exhibit B: The Human Condition” (2010). His style brought a raw aggression that complemented the band’s evolving sound, and for some fans, his tenure defined a distinct era of Exodus.
The reunion with Dukes also signals continuity, despite the shakeup. “Please help us welcome Rob Dukes back to Exodus! We are beyond stoked to have Rob back ripping up the stage with us and he’s looking forward to crushing everything like only he can,” the band’s statement continued. “Next chapter begins, new record rolls along as planned, and the beatings will continue.”
For Souza, this marks the end of his third stint with the band. He originally joined Exodus in 1986 and contributed to classic albums like “Pleasures of the Flesh” (1987) and “Fabulous Disaster” (1989). After parting ways in the early ’90s, he returned briefly from 2002 to 2004 before stepping back into the role in 2014, just in time to record “Blood In, Blood Out.”
The timing of the change is significant. Exodus is currently working on a new album expected in 2025, and Dukes will be the one delivering the vocals. His return will officially kick off with a live performance at Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest: Philly this April — an event that will no doubt be a litmus test for how well fans embrace the reunion.