Upon exiting the ranks of Megadeth, the world eagerly awaited news as to what was next for Chris Broderick (guitars) and Shawn Drover (drums). The duo recently announced their worldwide signing to Metal Blade Records for their new group, Act Of Defiance, which is rounded out by Henry Derek (ex-Scar The Martyr) on vocals and Matt Bachand (Shadows Fall) on bass. They are currently working on their debut offering with world renowned producer Zeuss (Rob Zombie, Hatebreed, Shadows Fall). Look for this album to be released sometime this summer.

Drover has checked in with the following update:

"So, this week has been all about 'finalizing' basically everything for the new Act Of Defiance record (artwork, CD booklet artwork, credits, thank you’s, etc. etc.) to have it all completed ASAP to hand over to Metal Blade Records. I haven’t really been this 'hands on' as it were, since the Eidolon days (my old band, also signed with Metal Blade back in the late 1990’s; funny how things come full circle, eh??!!) so this has been a lot of fun for me and the guys. I will breathe a sigh of relief when this is all 100%, so we can then focus on all the other great things that are on the horizon. None of which I can talk about quite yet, but of course all will be revealed in due time, believe me. 

We are all very excited about this heavy metal record we have created. We can’t wait for you to hear what we have created as well!

Until then...... STAY METAL!!!"

In the meantime, listen to a rough demo snippet of the track “Throwback” via the YouTube clip below.

Broderick previously stated: "I am so excited to finally be able to announce Act Of Defiance to the world. Shawn just finished tracking drums the first week of February and his performance and tones are simply incredible. I have started tracking rhythms and leads, as well as working with Henry to get final vocal takes while Matt will record bass at his studio. The final mix and mastering will also be handled by Zeuss. I am also very honored to announce that we have signed with Metal Blade Records. There is not a better label to be on than one where the employees (and owner) still understand and listen to METAL! They have shown a loyalty, backing and drive for their artists that few other labels have. As for our music, I am really enjoying the ability to create what is a killer mix of thrash and modern metal. It has a unique combination ranging from thrash to classical influences. I am very proud of what we have written and hope that you all dig it.”

Drover added: "Having our new band, Act Of Defiance, sign with Metal Blade Records is a real thrill for me. I started my musical career with Brian Slagel and the Metal Blade family many years ago, so to come full circle at this point is a real musical home-coming, of sorts. I couldn’t be happier about that. What thrills me the most is the fact that myself, Chris Broderick, Henry Derek and Matt Bachand all have in common is that from the get-go, we wanted this band to be 100% PURE Heavy Metal! No compromises, no ulterior motives other than making the best HEAVY METAL music we can. Metal Blade shares this vision, which really puts us all on the same page, musically.”

Bachand stated: "I couldn't be more excited to begin this new adventure with Act Of Defiance. The positive energy that has collected between the four of us in such a little amount of time has been nothing short of incredible. Writing bass lines is something new for me as well, and I am looking forward to the challenge. All the songs are coming together great and I can't wait for the world to hear this."

Derek commented: "I’m extremely honored and excited to be a part of AOD. Everyone has been super cool and supportive, which is always a huge plus. I know this is going to be an awesome musical experience and the fact that I’m embarking on this journey with good people means everything. Cheers."

Brian Slagel: “I am super excited to welcome Act Of Defiance to the Metal Blade family. I have known Chris and Shawn over the years and really admired their work. I am honoured to be able to work with these two legendary musicians. Really excited to work with all the guys on this exciting new band!"