POISONBLACK Parts Ways With Guitarist

After four years and two albums, POISONBLACK — the Finnish band featuring former SENTENCED frontman Ville Laihiala — has parted ways with guitarist Janne Markus. The group states, "[Janne's] goals and ambitions couldn't have come true in POISONBLACK and we totally understand and respect that. His creativity needs a different setting than POISONBLACK can and ever will provide. This is the one and only time we're going to explain the reasons behind his departure, so do not bother asking. We thank him for the music, the unforgettable moments we all shared together on and off stage and wish him the best for the future."

POISONBLACK recently inked a deal with Hype Records. The group will enter Antfarm Studio in Århus, Denmark in January 2011 with producer Tue Madsen (THE HAUNTED, MOONSPELL, DARK TRANQUILLITY, GOREFEST) to begin recording its fifth album, tentatively titled "Lead & Roll Vol. 5". A spring release is expected.

"We've been through some rough spots, but now we're completely recharged and ready to roll on with our new killer songs and our new label partners," said Laihiala.

Madsen previously mixed POISONBLACK's 2006 effort "Lust-Stained Despair".

As previously reported, guitarist Antti Leiviskä (MARY, BRYSSEL KAUPALLINEN, SICKNOTE) will replace Janne Markus at all upcoming POISONBLACK shows.

"Of Rust And Bones", the fourth album from POISONBLACK, entered the official chart in the group's home country at position No. 6. The follow-up to 2008's "A Dead Heavy Day" was recorded with producer Hiili Hiilesmaa, who has previously worked with such acts as HIM, SENTENCED, AMORPHIS and ENSIFERUM. The cover and booklet artwork was created by Teemu Hostikka.

"A Dead Heavy Day" also entered the Finnish chart at position No. 6.