Melodic tech-death metal masters Arsis have officially announced Brandon Ellis as their new guitarist. Brandon has toured with the band in the past but will make his recording debut with Arsis' upcoming full-length release. Brandon replaces guitarist Nick Cordle who was recently tapped to replace Christopher Amott in Arch Enemy.

Vocalist/guitarist James Malone commented: "I am super happy to say that Brandon Ellis has recently become the new lead guitarist for Arsis. Not only is he one of the best musicians that I have been able to work with, but he shares my passion for all things that are 80's metal, including ridiculously tacky paint jobs on guitars. I am beyond excited about writing new material with Brandon. Until then, listen for his shredilicious leads on the upcoming Arsis full length. Come check him out live with Arsis this December!"

Bassist Noah Martin continued: "Initially when Nick joined Arch Enemy, we all thought we could make it work with him having the time for both bands. Things unfortunately overlapped and we weren't able to work on the new album with him. We appreciate everything he's done for Arsis. We'll miss our friend greatly and do wish him all the best. Both Nick and Ryan Knight (The Black Dahlia Murder), contributed ridiculous leads for the album. Brandon's solos on this full-length are both crushing and particularly creative. His presence, along with Shawn's (Priest - drums), were integral to the tone of this album. We're in the post-production stage, now that the masters were just finished. In the meantime, come have beers with us on the Sonata Arctica run!"

Arsis recently wrapped of the recording sessions for their fifth full-length release. The album was tracked at Audiohammer Studios in Forida with producer Mark Lewis (The Black Dahlia Murder, Whitechapel, DevilDriver, Deicide, Six Feet Under). The follow-up to Starve For The Devil is tentatively scheduled for a first quarter of 2013 release via Nuclear Blast. The album will also debut new drummer/longtime session member, Shawn Priest.

Tour in support of Sonata Arctica:

12/06/12 - Gramercy Theatre - New York, NY
12/07/12 - The Palladium - Worcester, MA
12/08/12 - The Note - West Chester, PA
12/09/12 - Empire - West Springfield, VA
12/11/12 - The Opera House - Toronto, ON - Canada
12/12/12 - The Altar Bar - Pittsburgh, PA
12/13/12 - Peabody's - Cleveland, OH
12/14/12 - Harpo's - Detroit, MI
12/15/12 - Mojoes - Joliet, IL
12/17/12 - Bluebird Theater - Denver, CO
12/18/12 - Launchpad - Albuquerque, NM (Arsis only)
12/19/12 - Rhythm Room - Phoenix, AZ (Arsis only)
12/20/12 - Whisky A Go Go - Hollywood, CA
12/21/12 - Cheyenne Saloon - Las Vegas, NV (Arsis only)
12/23/12 - Chameleon Room - Oklahoma City, OK (Arsis only)

Source:	nuclearblastusa.com
Band profile:	Arsis