CORROSION OF CONFORMITY have introduced their new touring drummer NICK SHABATURA, who made his live debut with the band on April 7, 2026, at Hell at The Masquerade in Atlanta, Georgia. The Chicago-based percussionist brings fresh energy to a band whose founding drummer Reed Mullin passed away in January 2020.
Shabatura came with a notable recommendation: ANTHRAX and PANTERA drummer Charlie Benante personally vouched for him. Benante's word carries significant weight in the heavy music world, and Stanton Moore — who recorded drums on C.O.C.'s recent double album "Good God / Baad Man" — also gave his seal of approval after hearing Shabatura's work during rehearsals.
The incoming drummer's background spans a diverse range of styles. He previously performed with the death metal act DESECRATE THE HOUR and the NIRVANA tribute band SMELLS LIKE NIRVANA, demonstrating both technical precision and the ability to inhabit varied musical contexts. Those qualities proved decisive in the selection process.
Guitarist Woody Weatherman underscored the importance of personal chemistry: "You don't wanna get somebody in there that you don't get along with. That wouldn't work." He confirmed that Shabatura "is gonna be the touring drummer" going forward.
The band debuted the new lineup at Southeast dates with WHORES before embarking on a co-headlining tour with CLUTCH running through May 3, followed by additional shows alongside WHORES and CROBOT through May 16 in New Orleans. It is a busy and high-profile stretch for one of groove metal's most enduring acts, and NICK SHABATURA's arrival looks set to keep CORROSION OF CONFORMITY firmly in motion.