Jeff “Mantas” Dunn, the iconic guitarist and co-founder of Venom Inc., has officially announced his departure from the band, citing health concerns and personal reasons. Dunn, who has been a pivotal figure in the heavy metal scene as the late 1970s, shared the news on December 1 through social media, confirming he will not be participating in any upcoming shows. His exit comes as a surprise to many, including fellow band member tony “Demolition man” Dolan, who learned of Dunn’s decision through online channels. Despite this meaningful change, Venom Inc. is set to continue their North american tour in early 2024, with fans eagerly anticipating new music from Dunn in the future [1[1[1[1][2[2[2[2][3[3[3[3].
Interview: The Impact of Jeff “Mantas” Dunn’s Departure from Venom Inc.
Editor: Today we’re discussing a significant change in the heavy metal world: Jeff “Mantas” Dunn’s recent departure from Venom Inc. To provide insights into this progress, we have with us music expert and heavy metal historian, Robert Lee. Thanks for joining us,Robert.
Robert lee: thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to discuss the evolving landscape of heavy metal.
Editor: First off, Mantas announced his departure on December 1, citing health concerns and personal reasons. This is shocking news for many fans and industry insiders.What can you tell us about his significance in the heavy metal scene?
Robert Lee: Mantas is a true legend in heavy metal.He co-founded Venom in 1979, a band that played a pivotal role in shaping the black metal genre. His iconic sound and style have influenced countless guitarists and bands since. His decision to leave Venom Inc, especially after nearly a decade of reforming the band with former members, is a huge loss not just for the group, but for the heavy metal community at large.
Editor: It seems his exit was unexpected even for his bandmates, particularly Tony “Demolition Man” Dolan, who reportedly found out through social media. How dose this impact band dynamics?
Robert Lee: This kind of news definitely shakes up band dynamics. Trust and dialog are essential in a group setting, and since Dolan learned about Mantas’s departure online, it raises questions about internal relationships. However, it’s also a reminder that health should come first, and personally, I commend Mantas for prioritizing his well-being. It’s a necessary, though painful, choice in a demanding music industry.
Editor: Despite Mantas’s departure, Venom inc. plans to continue their North American tour early next year. How do you think fans will react to attending concerts without such a key member?
Robert Lee: fans are frequently enough passionate and supportive of their favorite bands, but it’s likely that some might feel a sense of loss attending shows without Mantas. Nonetheless, the band’s determination to move forward indicates their resilience and commitment to their music. This could also create an interesting narrative where fans are eager to see how the band evolves without Mantas, and whether they plan to introduce new members or change their sound.
Editor: Mantas has hinted at new music in his future projects. What can fans expect from him moving forward?
Robert Lee: given mantas’s talent and experience, fans can anticipate that future projects will be authentic reflections of his musical style. He has a wealth of material and creativity to draw from, particularly as he has a strong legacy in heavy metal. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him explore new avenues or collaborations as he continues his journey.
Editor: As we wrap up, what advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to navigate personal challenges while remaining committed to their careers?
Robert Lee: Prioritize your health and mental well-being above all. The music industry is demanding, and it’s easy to get lost in the hustle. Just like Mantas, if you find yourself facing personal challenges, taking a step back is important. Stay connected with your passion and your audience, and seek support from your peers. Healthy musicians create the best art, so take care of yourself first.
Editor: Thank you, Robert, for your insights. It’s clear that Jeff “Mantas” Dunn’s departure marks a notable turning point for Venom Inc. and the heavy metal scene. We wish him well in his future endeavors and look forward to seeing what’s next for both him and the band.
Robert Lee: Thank you for having me.It will indeed be fascinating to watch how this unfolds.