Max Blok (ALKALOID, DARK FORTRESS) has joined dutch death metal legends PESTILENCE as their second, full-time lead guitarist after the departure of Rutger van Noordenburg. The band is currently working on its tenth studio album, Portals, expected to be released in June on Agonia Records.
Rutger van Noordenburg has been with PESTILENCE from 2019 to 2025. During that time, he recorded one full-length album with the band – 2021’s Exitivm – and the best-of album, 2024’s Levels Of Perception.
On his departure, Rutger van Noordenburg comments: “Dear all, my time with PESTILENCE has come to an end. It is time for new musical adventures. I would like to thank the guys in the band and the management, especially Patrick for his awesome high speed train I was able to board for the last 6 years. We played countless shows in many countries and I feel very fortunate for all the memories created, all the friends made and all the fans out there. It has simply been an amazing experience being welcomed by fans and friends around the globe and experiencing it all with a great bunch of guys.”
Rutger‘s duties will be taken over by Max Blok of ALKALOID and DARK FORTRESS fame. “Stoked to share that I’m now part of PESTILENCE,” Max comments. “Big thanks to Patrick, Michiel and Roel for having me in the band. I’m eager to explore the new paths ahead and see what the future holds.”
Patrick Mameli adds: “We are very exited to announce, that Max Blok is taking over the second (lead) guitar spot in PESTILENCE. Wow, that went fast and smooth. Now, back to business: Portals, our upcoming album, is targeted for June 2025.”
PESTILENCE upcoming shows:
19.04.25. BA – Sarajevo, Eternal Flame Festival
26.06.25. DE – Homberg, Miso Open Air
10.08.25. BE – Kortrijk, Alcatraz Festival
19.09.25. DE – Schrobenhausen, Metal Im Void
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