Avenged Sevenfold have named Arin Ilejay the band's latest drummer. Ilejay, formerly of the Southern California Christian rock band Confide, will make his debut Saturday night in Lowell, MA, where the band kick off their month-long Nightmare After Christmas tour [click here for dates].
Avenged Sevenfold's founding drummer, James "The Rev" Sullivan, died December 28, 2009, from an accidental overdose of prescription drugs and alcohol. The band recruited Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy to record drums on their latest release, Nightmare, and tour throughout 2010, and announced in December that he would not remain with the band entering 2011.
"For the past few months, we've been blessed with Mike Portnoy's talent and humanity. When Mike agreed to tour with us, it was only through the end of 2010. We always knew we'd need to find another solution for 2011 and beyond. And it's time for us to take that next step," the band said in a December 17 statement on their website.
"We know we are not ready to add another permanent member of Avenged Sevenfold. We don't know if we will ever be. But if we do, it will only be with someone who is not only a brilliant drummer, but also someone we've gotten to know well on the road and off, and who you the fans have had a chance to get to know, and hopefully accept," they continued.
"He will not be a member of a7x. He will be someone you and we are getting to know. Perhaps this drummer will be a fit. Perhaps not. One thing is for sure. Over time we will find someone who helps us continue our quest to make the music we love for the fans we love."
Enter Ilejay.
"Our long time studio drum tech, Mike Fasano, recommended Arin Ilejay," the band said in today's announcement. "We've rehearsed with Arin and have been impressed with his technical skills, attitude and work ethic. We're very excited to tour with Arin and hope all of you will give him the warm welcome to the family we have."
The Nightmare After Christmas tour - featuring special guests Stone Sour and Hollywood Undead - launches Saturday night, in Lowell, MA.
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