Manager: New DAMAGEPLAN Recordings May Surface

Although DAMAGEPLAN may be finished as a touring entity in the wake of last month's on-stage murder of guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott, the group's manager told Billboard.com another release is likely. DAMAGEPLAN's lone album was its 2004 Elektra debut, "New Found Power".

"There were recordings the band laid down prior to Dimebag's death that are near completion," manager Paul Bassman tells Billboard in his first interview since the incident. "[Drummer/Abbott's brother] Vinnie Paul has said there will be a follow-up album down the road, as Dime would have wanted his music to be heard."

Bassman adds, "The outpouring of kind thoughts, sadness and condolences have meant so much to all of us. On behalf of all the families impacted by this horrible tragedy, let me share a public acknowledgement of our gratitude."

Abbott was shot to death by disgruntled fan Nathan Gale during a Dec. 8 performance at Alrosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio. Jeff "Mayhem" Thompson, who handled road security for the band, was also shot and killed, as were Erin Halk, who worked at Alrosa Villa in a security role, and Nathan Bray, who was reportedly trying to help Dimebag when he was gunned down. The band's drum tech, John "Kat" Brooks, and tour manager, Chris Paluska, are still recovering from gunshot wounds.

"How this man got onstage without encountering security is the most puzzling question," Bassman says.

"All clubs should be prepared for whatever presents itself to protect any artist they have contracted to perform on their stage," he continues. "In this particular case it may or may not have helped, but it certainly would not have hurt. Hopefully, a tragedy such as this will never be repeated."