Bobby Jarzombek SA Southsider Bobby Jarzombek’s drum skills have made him a hot commodity for a variety of metal acts. He’s toured or recorded with Iced Earth, Riot and prog-metal heavyweights Fates Warning. What’s more, he’s been the go-to drummer for former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford for their solo projects. Photo via Facebook / Bobby Jarzombek Credit: Facebook / Bobby Jarzombek

Drummer Bobby Jarzombek, known for his work with metal artists Fates Warning, Sebastian Bach and Rob Halford, has added a new, decidedly non-heavy gig to his resume: playing with fellow San Antonian George Strait.

“I’m very proud to announce that I am now playing drums for the legendary country music artist George Strait,” the San Antonio resident posted on Facebook Tuesday. “As the newest member of his ‘Ace In The Hole’ band, last Saturday we played a private event in Austin, TX and everything was awesome! I am so glad to be here! Really looking forward to the future with George and the guys!”

The (normally) hard-hitting drummer’s rep in the metal world allowed him to land enviable session work and perform at some of the world’s biggest festivals, including Rock In Rio and Wacken Open Air.

Even so, a slot with Strait means Jarzombek is working with a bonafide musical legend. The singer known as “The King of Country” has moved more than 100 million albums worldwide, making him one of the bestselling artists in any genre.

Jarzombek’s announcement was first reported by the metal blog Blabbermouth.

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This article appears in May 19 – Jun 1, 2021.

Sanford Nowlin is editor-in-chief of the San Antonio Current. He holds degrees from Trinity University and the University of Texas at San Antonio, and his work has been featured in Salon, Alternet, Creative...