In a move that’s sure to reignite the flames of nostalgia and spark fresh debates among rock enthusiasts, drummer Jimmy D’Anda has officially rejoined BULLETBOYS, marking a significant chapter in the band’s storied history. But here’s where it gets controversial: while original members Marq Torien (lead vocals, guitar) and Lonnie Vencent (bass) are back in the fold, guitarist Mick Sweda has made it clear he has 'no desire' to return, leaving fans divided over the band’s future direction. Joining the lineup is the fiery Frankie Lindia, known for his work with David Lee Roth, RATT, and ATOMIC PUNKS, adding a new layer of excitement to the mix.
The reunion of the original BULLETBOYS lineup—Torien, Vencent, D’Anda, and Sweda—in December 2019 was short-lived, lasting only until January 2022 when Sweda and D’Anda announced their departure. However, the band’s story took an emotional turn in December 2024 when Vencent returned, setting the stage for D’Anda’s recent comeback. In a heartfelt Facebook post earlier today (October 13, 2025), D’Anda reflected on his decision, stating, 'I thought long and hard about my future in rock n roll. Everyone knows it’s a monumental task for bands to reunite, especially those fractured for years. After losing OZZY, it shook me to my core. Lonnie, Marq, and I sat down over salsa and beer, cleared years of resentment, and decided there was unfinished business.'
And this is the part most people miss: D’Anda revealed he personally reached out to Sweda, who declined the invitation, a decision D’Anda described as 'understandable.' The search for a new guitarist led them to Lindia, whose passion and skill were unmatched. 'Please welcome him to the fold!' D’Anda urged fans.
Currently in rehearsals, the band is gearing up to work on new music, with upcoming shows scheduled for October and December, including performances alongside LYNCH MOB and WARRANT. For those eager to catch them live, mark your calendars for October 24 at Token Lounge in Westland, MI, October 25 at APlex in Alpena, MI, December 19 at Arcada Theater in St. Charles, IL, and December 28 at Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood, CA.
Formed in 1988 at the height of the Los Angeles glam metal scene, BULLETBOYS quickly distinguished themselves with a unique hard rock-blues fusion, earning comparisons to legends like AEROSMITH and VAN HALEN. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1988 via Warner Bros., peaked at number 34 on the Billboard 200 and spawned hits like 'For The Love Of Money' (a cover of the O'JAYS classic) and 'Smooth Up in Ya,' both of which dominated MTV and rock radio. The band followed up with 'Freakshow' (1991) and 'Za-Za' (1993) before disbanding.
The 2019 reunion’s collapse led Sweda to declare he would 'never do anything with BULLETBOYS again,' a statement that now feels like a challenge to the band’s resilience. Is this new lineup a fresh start or a risky gamble? With Lindia’s addition and D’Anda’s renewed commitment, BULLETBOYS are poised to redefine their legacy. But the question remains: Can they recapture the magic of their early days, or will the absence of Sweda leave a void that’s impossible to fill? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate rock fans won’t want to miss!
