Shannon Lucas - The Black Dahlia Murder Drummer Quits

The musician confirmed his departure from the cult group in a video message to fans, but reveals he won't be quitting rock altogether and is working on a side project with guitarist Dutkiewicz and Cannibal Corpse singer George 'Corpsegrinder' Fisher.

In the clip, which was posted online this week (begs05Nov12), he says, "Some of you may have heard that I was sitting out on the current Dethklok tour, that is correct. I'm also stepping back from Bdm to pursue some other things in life.

"I want to thank all the fans that have ever came (sic) out to a Bdm show... supported me... I couldn't have done it without any of you, so thank you very much, and I want to thank the band as well for giving me some of the best years of my entire life and records that I am very, very proud to be a part of. I've always loved Bdm and I will always continue to be in the background..."

Lucas is also planning to set up his own tattoo parlour in Virginia.

Alan Cassidy has been recruited as his tour replacement, although a permanent new member for The Black Dahlia Murder has yet to be chosen.