Imagine blending the thunderous beats of metal legends with the haunting allure of holiday romance— that's the magic Dave Lombardo and his wife Paula are bringing back this season with their band Venamoris. If you're a fan of music that tugs at your heartstrings while keeping you on the edge of your seat, you won't want to miss their latest release.
November 6, 2025
What started as a spontaneous creative burst has evolved into a cherished yearly event for fans worldwide. Venamoris, the captivating duo made up of iconic extreme metal drummer Dave Lombardo—known for his groundbreaking work with bands like Slayer, Fantômas, Testament, Mr. Bungle, Misfits, and Dead Cross—alongside his talented spouse Paula, has just dropped a fresh, standalone track perfect for the holidays: 'Dreaming Of You.'
As Paula shares with warmth, 'It all kicked off with just one idea, but now it's our go-to tradition each winter.' This latest gem, 'Dreaming Of You,' marks their fourth surprise holiday tune, painting a chilly, ethereal picture of yearning, deep bonds, and the lingering echoes that hide within a song's notes. For those new to this, think of it as a musical snow globe—shaking up emotions with a mix of nostalgia and mystery that feels both festive and introspective.
Earlier this year, the couple made waves with their first album on Ipecac Recordings, titled 'To Cross Or To Burn.' This impressive 10-track project spotlights standout singles like 'In The Shadows,' 'Truth,' and 'Spiderweb,' plus a mesmerizing reinterpretation of the Scorpions' classic 'Animal Magnetism,' featuring guest guitar wizardry from Gary Holt of Slayer and Exodus. Critics raved about it: Kerrang! called it 'beguiling,' capturing its enchanting pull; Treble Zine highlighted its influences from 'dark jazz' and 'exotica'—genres that blend shadowy vibes with exotic, worldly sounds for a unique atmospheric twist; and Ghost Cult praised how it echoes the moody essence of the noir film classic 'Blue Velvet,' evoking that sense of hidden desires and twilight intrigue.
But here's where it gets even more exciting: 'Dreaming Of You' is actually the second single they've unleashed since 'To Cross Or To Burn' hit the scene. Back in May, they shared 'Contrapasso,' which they vividly described as a tale of a villain's ultimate downfall—a narrative-driven track that dives into themes of justice and consequence, almost like a dark fable set to music.
Now, let's talk about Dave Lombardo, the powerhouse behind the drums whose reputation as a top-tier percussionist needs no introduction. During his Slayer days, he essentially invented the aggressive, lightning-fast style that shaped thrash metal, influencing generations of drummers. Yet, his versatility knows no bounds—he's explored everything from solo drum works like his 2023 release 'Rites Of Percussion,' where he showcases intricate rhythms without any other instruments, to fusions with hip-hop beats, classical compositions, and experimental jams with artists ranging from avant-garde maestro John Zorn's groups to punk legends like the Misfits and Mr. Bungle. It's this chameleon-like ability that keeps him endlessly fascinating.
Paula Lombardo, originally from Canada, kicked off her journey in music at just 18, lending her voice as a backup singer for the legendary Las Vegas entertainer Wayne Newton. She tackled the high-pressure world of Vegas shows night after night before heading to Nashville to chase her dreams as an independent songwriter. Today, she's a force to be reckoned with, blending her powerful singing range, skillful playing on piano and synthesizers, and an innate talent for weaving seductive lyrics, catchy hooks, and thoughtful arrangements. For beginners dipping their toes into songwriting, Paula's approach is a great example of how personal stories can transform into universally relatable tunes.
Together as Venamoris, this dynamic pair has built an impressive catalog, including two full-length albums: the recent 'To Cross Or To Burn' from 2025 and 'Drown In Emotion' from 2023. They've also gifted fans two special holiday singles each year, adding to the growing collection of seasonal surprises.
And this is the part most people miss: while Venamoris fuses metal roots with romantic noir, some might argue it's pushing the boundaries of holiday music too far into the shadows— is this the future of festive tunes, or just a niche delight for the unconventional? What do you think—does blending extreme metal with yuletide longing work for you, or does it clash? Share your takes in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you're team 'dreamy darkness' or prefer sticking to traditional carols!
Photo credit: Hannah Verbeuren
