November 11, 2011 16:56

Former Anthrax singer Dan Nelson sues band for over $2.5 million

Singer says the band have made false statements about the way he left and failed to pay him royalties

Dan Nelson, former vocalist with Anthrax, is suing the band for $2.65 million (£1.65 million).

Nelson left the thrash survivors in 2009, despite the fact that he had recorded some vocal parts for the band's new studio album. He was replaced by John Bush, who also left the metal outfit soon after joining. Ultimately, the band's former frontman Joey Belladonna rejoined the band and recorded the vocal parts which would ultimately appear on the band's 10th studio album 'Worship Music'.

According to the New York Post, Nelson is seeking damages as he alleges drummer Charlie Benante, bassist Frank Bello and guitarist Scott Ian have falsely stated in "numerous interviews" that he had "abruptly resigned" after getting sick and forced them to cancel a tour.

Nelson is also unhappy about the band describing him as "a bully" in an online news interview and alleges that his former bandmates have caused "intentional defamation" as well as a loss of income.

The singer is also alleging that he wrote a portion of the songs on 'Worship Music', but hasn't been paid a fair share of the profits. The suit was filed in New York earlier this week.

Anthrax released 'Worship Music', their first studio album for eight years, in September.