Swedish metallers ENGEL have been forced to cancel the remaining dates on their "Blood Of Saints Over Sweden" in order to allow their bassist, Steve Drennan, undergo knee surgery. The band states, "Steve have been rocking to much that his knee broke down and now has to face some time in the hospital to make things right."

Commented Steve: "Dear all, no doubt by now it has been made official, but sadly we have had to cancel the upcoming shows due to a persistant knee condition that I have been dealing with which has become much worse over the past months to the point of being unable to perform under medical instructions. It was always my intention to get the next shows under way until my scheduled and unavoidable surgery to rectify the damage, but sadly, the many physio sessions and painkillers have had a negative side effect, leaving me in constant pain and unable to give what I think is my best in the live performance.

"I really am sorry to disappoint so many of you but I promise to be back and fighting fit for the New Year, but right now i need to take some time out to rest before surgery.

"I thank you all for your patience and understanding and see you all soon!"

ENGEL recently parted ways with singer Magnus "Mangan" Klavborn and recruited Lenne (ex-TWELVESTEP) as his temporary replacement.

ENGEL's new album, "Blood Of Saints", entered the official chart in Sweden at position No. 60. Released on May 18 via Season Of Mist, the CD was recorded at Antfarm studios in Aabyhøj, Denmark. According to the group, the album is "a good mixture between both [previous ENGEL efforts] 'Threnody' [2010] and 'Absolute Design' [2007], but with some new angles as well!"

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