Founding member and guitarist Oscar Dronjak of the Swedish metallers HAMMERFALL has issued the following update:
"The waiting and speculation is over. Magnus [Rosén, bass] has been replaced. The new guy should be no stranger to any HAMMERFALL fan: re-enter Fredrik Larsson, original member of the band and fugutive for the past decade. Fredrik brings structure to the rhythm section and I think you will definitely hear and feel the difference when we play live. Drummer Anders Johansson remarked, "He plays with a pick, for one, and has a great groove and timing, all of which will make HAMMERFALL sound better than we ever have before." Guitarist Stefan Elgrem chimed in: "We are all very psyched about this and can't wait to get on the road again." Lead singer Joacim Cans added, "Fredrik recorded 'Glory To The Brave' with us, so he's definitely a part of the family. It's great to have him back!"
Launch Radio Networks reports: VELVET REVOLVER has pushed back the release of its second album, "Libertad", to late June, sources have told Launch. An exact arrival date for the disc has yet to be determined. Although it was never officially confirmed, June 5 was widely reported as the record's initial release date. In other news, the band has also been confirmed to appear at the U.S. Virgin Festival, scheduled for August 4-5 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. The event will also feature the SMASHING PUMPKINS, THE BEASTIE BOYS and THE POLICE.