Anthrax’s Frank Bello Leaves Tour, Joey Vera of Armored Saint Filling In

Anthrax bassist Frank Bello is following his uncle and partner in the band's rhythm section, drummer Charlie Benante, and leaving the band's current tour in order to spend time with family during its current crisis. Benante's mother, who is also Bello's grandmother, is terminally ill and her son and grandson have put business aside to cater to family.

While Bello is on this necessary and temporary leave, Armored Saint's Joey Vera will fill in for him. Bello asked fans, via a series of tweets, to make Joey "feel welcome" and said that he will be back as soon as possible.

Vera is like Bello's understudy, as he has replaced the bassist multiple times in the past. He filled in for him from April 2004 through March 2005, and for a festival gig in 2008.

Testament's Gene Hoglan has been picking up the sticks in Benante's stead while he is with his mother. Anthrax are out in support of 'Worship Music,' their first album with vocalist Joey Belladonna since 1990's 'Persistence of Time.'

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Bello and Benante and their family during this difficult time.

Anthrax tour dates for February:

2 Tabernacle, Atlanta, GA

3 Promowest Pavilion, Columbus, OH

6 Crocodile Rock, Allentown, PA

7 Rams Head Live!, Baltimore, MD

8 Best Buy Theatre, New York, NY