Navene Koperweis is no longer the drummer of US instrumental progressive metallers Animals As Leaders. He recently decided to leave the group. Filling in for him will be Matt Garstka (Gokh Bi System, Two Man Trio and Verse The Fire) on the band's upcoming European and North American tours.

Koperweis had this to say about his departure: "Tosin and Javier (Reyes, guitar) are the two most generous, caring and understanding individuals I've ever met and I look forward to a lifetime of friendship with the both of them. Over the past decade I have done nothing but music. Recording, writing, playing, practicing, touring and producing. It's taken me beyond what I could have dreamt of as a kid when I started. My new goals extend beyond the drum kit and I'm the type of person who will constantly chase new dreams. You'll be seeing a lot more of me soon."

Tosin Abasi commented: "I've shared some of my most memorable musical experiences to date with Navene and truly consider him a brother. I commend him for following his own path in life, even if that means I'll no longer be sharing the stage with him. I feel blessed to have had the pleasure of working together and creating a lifelong friendship."

"We see nothing but great potential with Matt, and look forward to performing with him on the upcoming tours. We feel very excited for the future of AAL, which is brighter than ever. I'm beyond excited for our fans to hear some of the new music we already have brewing for the future!"

Source:	prostheticrecords.com
Band profile:	Animals As Leaders