German heavy doom metal machine Atlantean Kodex announced that they have parted ways with their long-time lead guitarist Michael Koch, who has been part of the band from the very beginning (2005). The main reason for this mutual decision are the health issues that Michael has been dealing with for quite some time now.

Statement from the group: "We're afraid that the shared path of the Kodex and our long-time lead guitar player Michael Koch has come to an end. As only a few of you know, Michi has been dealing with massive pain in his joints for a long time and needed painkillers to play his last few shows. Traveling to the shows and performing live always meant a huge stress for his body. Yet he fought on for more than ten years, never whined and always gave 100%.

"Yet now, with the new album and lots of live shows (and traveling) on the horizon, we mutually decided to part ways. Koch will remain a part of the Kodex-family. So if you meet him at a festival, buy him a beer and say thank you for the great time we all had in the past ten years. When playing in (southern) Germany chances are good, he'll come on stage with us for a song or two.

"The difficult search for a replacement has already begun. The announced shows and the album release will happen as planned. Hail and Koch!"

Source:	facebook.com
Band profile:	Atlantean Kodex