ATTACKER Parts Ways With Bassist, Announces Replacement

New Jersey metallers ATTACKER have announced the addition of bassist Jon Hanemann to the group's ranks. Hanemann replaces outgoing original bassist Lou Ciarlo, who decided to step aside due to other musical comittments and his lack of real interest in continuing in the metal world.

According to ATTACKER, Jon "came down and totally blew the doors off the material. It was evident after the first song that he was the guy. Drummer Mike Sabatini had been working with Hanemann in another project. So it was a no-brainer to have him come into the fold."

Commented Sabatini: "Lou is my closest friend. But he no longer had it in his heart to continue and we have to respect that decision.

"People change and grow, and sometimes want to go in a different direction. We do still share a rehersal room and help each other out with various musical projects.

Added Ciarlo: "Mike and I have been buds forever; some say we're like an old married couple when it comes to playing music together.

"Please know that I say this with confidence and not arrogance, as a bass and drums rhythm section, the two of us are locked in like very few are or can be, and it's not just when playing metal. We could play Johnny Cash or Liza Minnelli songs and it would be the same. So when Mike had asked if I would help him with a new ATTACKER release and record the bass tracks, how could I tell him no?

"When I had initially agreed to working with the band, it was understood that due to my extremely busy schedule, I would be doing the bass tracks as a hired gun only, with no commitment to any live performances. Spending time with my wife and daughter, time with close friends, a demanding career as a wireless engineer and playing bass for the Karyn Kuhl band has filled my schedule to the max. But as it has been since the beginning of ATTACKER, when Mike, Pat and Mike B. decide to play as ATTACKER, it's nothing less than full-on.

"With that said, I quickly realized there would be no way for me to meet their needs as a bass player. Additionally, my heart just isn't in it anymore and hasn't been for some time; musically I am in a very different place.

"With this, I feel it is best I step aside and let a new era of the band unfold. With Jon Hanemann taking over bass duties and Bobby Lucas on vocals, I am sure all of those loyal ATTACKER fans will still love the band as much as before, if not more! I know this is something Mike and the rest of the band will! Best of luck to them and farewell!"