Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Musicians from across the Bay Area thrash scene are coming together to support Death Angel co-founder Dennis Pepa. The benefit concert, titled Heal As One: A Benefit for Dennis Pepa, is scheduled for Sunday, January 24, 2027, at DNA Lounge in San Francisco.
The evening will feature an all-star performance involving current and former members of Exodus, Slayer, Testament, Death Angel, Forbidden, Heathen, Nevermore, D.R.I. and DRAIN, among other groups. The announcement refers to musicians associated with those bands, rather than full-band performances. Hirax are also set to play.
The event has a family connection, too. San Francisco punk band P.O.S., featuring Pepa’s son Roman, will perform, and Pepa’s project Big Shrimp will join them onstage. Organisers are also planning benefit merchandise, auctions and additional fundraising activities.
Pepa revealed in his own fundraising campaign earlier this month that he had been diagnosed with advanced cancer. Proceeds from the January event will help with treatment and living costs. Death Angel have also shared the benefit announcement through their official Instagram account.
Dennis Pepa, a founding former member of the thrash metal band Death Angel, is currently undergoing treatment for cancer. He served as the bassist and backing vocalist for the band from 1982 to 1991, with a subsequent period from 2001 to 2008, and briefly assumed lead vocal responsibilities from 1982 to 1984. Pepa disclosed that he was diagnosed with stage 4 duodenal cancer, a subtype of stomach cancer, in February of this year. He is actively seeking financial assistance to cover the costs associated with his medical treatment through a campaign on GoFundMe, where he shared details about his current health status.
