Anaheim, California’s House Of Blues is set to host the next installment of the annual headline performance by the metal collective METAL ALLEGIANCE on Thursday, January 28, 2027. The event will feature core members Mark Menghi, Alex Skolnick, Mike Portnoy, and David Ellefson.
For this special evening, METAL ALLEGIANCE will be joined by a diverse lineup of guest artists. Those announced include Fredrik Åkesson of OPETH, Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth from OVERKILL, John Bush of ARMORED SAINT, Marty Friedman of MEGADETH, Todd La Torre from QUEENSRŸCHE, Troy Sanders of MASTODON, and Angel Vivaldi, among others. Support for the concert will be provided by Marty Friedman, WICKED, and LOST LEGACY.
Mark Menghi commented on the long-standing tradition, noting the difficulty in believing that the Anaheim event first launched in 2014. He stated that it has been an incredible ride, delivering "over a decade of thrashing Anaheim" with consistently growing energy each year. Mike Portnoy added that the annual Southern California show in January remains one of his favorite performances each year, expressing anticipation for jamming with fellow musicians and attendees.
David Ellefson described the event as the "best way to kick off the new year" with a METAL ALLEGIANCE family reunion, eager to collaborate with new friends and guests. Alex Skolnick highlighted the event as a great night of music with friends, old and new, and an excellent way to begin the year, noting that 2027 promises to be no exception with both returning favorites and first-timers joining the fold.
John Bush expressed excitement to perform with new and familiar faces at the "classic METAL ALLEGIANCE jam," calling it a "smorgasbord of treats for the faithful" and an honor to share the stage with talented individuals. Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth also conveyed his anticipation for taking the stage with friends, both new and old, to commence the "epic, metal party."
Todd La Torre mentioned that this will be his first time participating with METAL ALLEGIANCE, looking forward to sharing the stage with many friends and legends of metal, and expecting an awesome time for everyone involved. Marty Friedman underscored the uniqueness of the show, where rock heroes gather to pay tribute to the music that inspired them. Angel Vivaldi remarked on the event’s longevity, stating that after fourteen years, it keeps "aging like fine wine" and is a "must-attend if you’re local," due to its celebration of music and community.
METAL ALLEGIANCE was formed by Mark Menghi and includes core members David Ellefson (ex-MEGADETH), Mark Menghi (KING ULTRAMEGA), Alex Skolnick (TESTAMENT), and Mike Portnoy (DREAM THEATER). The collective began as a celebration of the metal genre and has since forged its own legacy through collaborations with revered artists. They have released two albums of original music and an EP, regularly performing live. The group recently signed with Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM) and released their first piece of original music since 2018, the single "Black Horizon," which featured a guest appearance by ALICE IN CHAINS vocalist William DuVall.
For those interested in attending, a Live Nation presale for tickets will begin on Wednesday, October 21 at 10:00 a.m. EST. Tickets will become available to the general public on Thursday, October 22 at 10:00 a.m. EST. VIP Meet-And-Greet and Soundcheck Packages are currently available for purchase.