Slayer’s Dave Lombardo on His Friendship With Lars Ulrich and the Status of Jeff Hanneman

Slayer have an intense summer lined up co-headlining this summer’s Rock Star Energy Drink Mayhem festival, but they’ll be doing it without guitarist Jeff Hanneman. Hanneman will be sitting out the tour to continue his recovery process after complications associated with a debilitating spider bite.

In a new interview with MetalPaths.com, Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo was as asked about Hanneman’s current health status and when he thought Jeff may return to the stage. Lombardo kept his answer short and sweet saying only, “I really don’t know. Nobody knows… Until he feels better and the doctor says 'go.’"

As Hanneman recovers, Exodus guitarist Gary Holt has been lending a hand and Lombardo had nothing but praise for him. "Gary is an amazing guitar player,” said Lombardo. “We love Gary and we really appreciate all of the help he has given us while Jeff is getting better."

When asked about his experience playing as part of the ‘Big 4’ Lombardo said it was a great time. He also made a plea for his friend and fellow drummer, Metallica's Lars Ulrich. “Me and Lars we get along great and I don’t like people talking s--- about Lars! They have to stop,” demanded Lombardo. “There are a lot of fans out there who like to say a lot of bad things about him and he’s a very good friend of mine and I don’t like it."

Lombardo is one busy man. In addition to touring this summer with Slayer, his side project Philm recently released their debut disc 'Harmonic.'