Former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd’s trial on multiple charges in New Zealand will begin April 21.
Rudd appeared on AC/DC’s "Rock Or Bust" but missed an October video shoot in London in advance of his November 6 arrest on multiple charges by New Zealand police – including possession of methamphetamine, possession of cannabis and threatening to kill.
Last week, the case in Tauranga district court was delayed to April after his lawyer backed out and a new one was confirmed; Rudd’s issues will be addressed in a “judge-alone” trail where no jury is present.
While Rudd recently insisted he would continue to work with AC/DC, the band revealed the return of Chris Slade behind the kit over the weekend as they opened the 57th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.
Slade first joined AC/DC in 1989; he appeared on 1990’s "The Razors Edge" but quit in 1994 when the band raised the issue of potentially bringing Rudd back into the lineup.
Rumours surrounding the drummer’s return surfaced this past week when his Los Angeles optometrist hinted that “big news regarding Slade and his career” was coming after he was forced to reschedule a publicity appearance originally planned for Saturday.
"This is an amazing opportunity for me. After all, most people don't ever get to play with their favorite band once, let alone TWICE!,” says Slade. "I would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming support I have been shown personally, on the Facebook page and other social media. Not one comment has gone unread and it has been very humbling. Thanks so much.”
He adds: "We apologize for the secrecy. Please understand this was for all the right reasons."
AC/DC were recently named the No. 7 Rock News Artist Of The Year and delivered the No. 8 Rock News Story Of The Year as part of the 5th annual hennemusic Rock News Awards.
See also:
VIDEO: AC/DC perform at Grammy Awards
Drummer Chris Slade rejoins AC/DC
AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd’s court case delayed
AC/DC need fans for Los Angeles video shoot
Search AC/DC at hennemusic
