Anthrax drummer Benante out with hand injury, Todd fills in

Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante will temporarily step away from the band's European tour due to a hand injury, with session musician Darby Todd filling in for a series of shows. Benante announced the news on June 20, explaining he injured his right hand and is following doctor's orders to rest from performances through July 4 to allow for proper healing.

In a social media statement, Benante expressed his gratitude to Todd for stepping in. He said he is focused on recovery and looks forward to returning to the road soon. The affected dates are part of Anthrax's ongoing European tour, which includes festival appearances such as Hellfest in France and Tons of Rock in Norway. Todd, a U.K.-based session drummer, played his first show of this fill-in run at Hellfest on June 20. He had previously performed with Anthrax for a show in Athens, Greece, on May 23.

Benante is expected to rejoin the band for a scheduled performance in Portugal on July 7. Following the European leg, Anthrax is set to begin a North American tour with Iron Maiden and Megadeth in September.

The band is also preparing to release its first studio album in a decade. Titled "Cursum Perficio," the album is scheduled...