Fresh off of their North American tour with Paul DiAnno in support of their February 9th release, Draw Down The Moon, Pittsburgh based melodic metal band ICARUS WITCH have announced a change in their lead vocal department. In a statement from the band’s official site they explained the situation:
“We are excited to announce yet another massive shift in our ranks as we welcome new vocalist Christopher Shaner to the ICARUS WITCH circle and part ways amicably with original vocalist, Matthew Bizilia. Matthew’s contributions to the band have been immeasurable over the past six years. While this was a serious decision for both parties, professional differences of opinion led to the change. Bizilia is a phenomenal talent who will always be a part of the Witch family as we wish him much success on his future ventures.”
Incoming vocalist and Erie, Pennsylvania native, Shaner is a long time friend and collaborator of guitarist Quinn Lukas. Before Quinn moved to Pittsburgh to join ICARUS WITCH in 2006, he had worked on various musical projects with the singer. Much like the recent acquisition of second guitarist Ed Skero, the choice to add Christopher to the band was based on a combination of what he brings to the lineup personally, musically and professionally. His powerful vocal range, sense of harmony and intense work ethic are a perfect fit for the next phase of this band. Writing for the follow-up to Draw Down The Moon has already commenced with the new recruits and it promises to be the band’s most diverse, melodic and epic release ever.
Friends of the ‘WITCH can get a taste of the new lineup as Christopher and Ed make their debut at Pittsburgh’s Hard Rock Cafe Friday, May 28th, where the band will be opening for Lizzy Borden. Also on the band’s itinerary are the Warriors Of Metal III Festival in Ohio this June, and some exciting tour news to follow in mere days.
Draw Down The Moon is now available to stream in its entirety at: http://www.myspace.com/icaruswitch
Upcoming ICARUS WITCH live appearances:
5/28/2010 Hard Rock Cafe – Pittsburgh, PA w/ Lizzy Borden
6/24/2010 Blondie’s – Detroit, MI
6/26/2010 Warriors of Metal III Open Air Fest – Chillicothe, OH w/ Cage, Omen, Dantesco, Imagika, + more
8/04/2010 Hard Rock Cafe – Pittsburgh, PA w/ Y&T
9/21/2010 Peabody’s – Cleveland, OH w/ Kamelot, Leaves Eyes
“The latest from USA traditional metal merchants hits you between the eyes from the start… Easily their best to date.” 8.5/10 – Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles
“In a just world, Icarus Witch would be playing to sold out theaters from coast to coast – they have that dramatic charm and musical skills to keep everyone happy and looking forward to future records.” 8/10 – Blistering
“…a pretty solid album from one of America’s leading up and coming heavy metal bands.” – Metal-Rules
http://www.icaruswitch.com
http://www.myspace.com/icaruswitch
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