Sigh. While Philadelphia is singing and destroying stuff based on yesterdays Super Bowl LII win, the Metal fans of the world are as sad as those of the New England Patriots as the news about drummer Casey Grillo departing the mighty Kamelot begins to make the rounds. I’ve culled the bands official statement from their resources and share it with you below. Check it out.

“Dear Kamelotians,

The forthcoming release of The Shadow Theory will mark another chapter in the band’s illustrious career. Coming off of the success of Haven, the band has stepped up their game even more on this new album and the massive tour planned for 2018/2019. Casey is off to new endeavors! Prior to the recent final recordings, long-time drummer Casey Grillo informed the band that he had made the difficult decision to pursue other music and touring opportunities, in addition to the desire to focus more time on his drumhead company.

“Casey has been my friend and colleague for nearly 20 years. We have seen and done a lot together both in and outside of Kamelot. As his friends, the band and I respect his decision. I’m sure that we will all still be hanging out together when we have down time.” adds Kamelot guitarist Thomas Youngblood (Official).

In a letter regarding his departure, Casey states: “First and foremost I would like to thank all of the Kamelot fans around the world for your support during my time with the band. It has afforded me the opportunity to travel the globe, meet the most amazing people, experience so many cultures, and to share some of the most memorable experiences of my life. Between the various other musical endeavors I am involved with, along with my rapidly growing business DrumStatic.com, it really just became evident it was time for me to explore and focus on these new opportunities without compromising the exclusivity Kamelot needs and deserves.”

The technical musical arrangements and intense touring demands drove the band to enlist a proficient and energetic musician which would fit perfectly within the Kamelot machine. The new Kamelot drummer is someone you may already know, so please welcome with open arms Johan “Jo” Nunez. This 29 year old drum master and instructor has been touring and playing on albums with Marty Freedman, Gus G, Firewind, Nightrage and more. “We knew Johan already from touring and he worked with us on the entire recent European tour. He’s a sensational drummer, and was an easy choice in my mind. Be sure to make him feel welcome, and bug him for a photo, he’s a super nice dude!” adds Kamelot bassist Sean Tibbetts.

Johan Nunez states: “I am thrilled to join the Kamelot family! I’ve known the band for well over 15 years and always looked up to Casey as a drummer, so it was a big honor for me when I was asked to step in. I have toured in the past with Kamelot and I could see how dedicated and loving their fans are! Everybody in the band and crew has been wonderful and already made me feel at home, so I’m really excited to meet you all soon on the road!”

Casey concurs with the selection and adds: “I sincerely ask for you all to give a warm welcome to Johan Nunez, and to embrace him as the new drummer. He is a great guy and will proudly represent and continue the Kamelot legacy!“

The band wishes Casey all the best in his future musical and business journeys. As part of the Kam family, he will continue to work behind the scenes with band.

The band is also confident that with the release of The Shadow Theory, fans will immediately recognize that Johan’s fantastic musicianship is a perfect choice for Kamelot. They can’t wait for you to meet him on tour!

Learn more about Johan Nunez HERE or on his Facebook Page HERE.
European and Japan Tour dates coming this week and some big endorsement announcements!

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PiercingMetal Thoughts: My father always says that “the only constant is change” and with bands this is truth. While I am confident that Johan will bring his best game to the Kamelot music, I’m certainly going to miss Casey up there and wish him the greatest of success in all of his endeavors. Good luck my friend, I hope to cross paths with you again sooner rather than later. I’ll close this by saying “Welcome aboard Johan”, let’s see what you got up your sleeve with some of my very favorite Heavy Metal music. What do you readers think about this news? Please chime in down in the comments below.

Official Website: http://www.kamelot.com
Official Website: http://www.drumstatic.com