EXHORDER To Play All Previously Scheduled Shows In Bassist's Memory

Vocalist Kyle Thomas of legendary New Orleans metallers EXHORDER has sent the following update to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:

"Although the tough time that we are experiencing right now is far from over, we have begun the arduous task of healing following the passing of our friend and bandmate, Frankie Sparcello [EXHORDER bassist who passed away on March 22. — Ed.].

"We would like to thank everyone that reached out to us in so many ways during the last two weeks. It has meant so much to us and Frankie's family that so many have shown such immense support and love.

"Many people are asking or wondering exactly what happened to him that caused his untimely death, but at this time it is not known for certain. Medical reports from the coroner have not returned and may not for several weeks, so until then we all must wait, unfortunately. In the meantime, we would like to say that in Frankie's honor and memory we have decided to play all of the shows we have booked in April and May. April 15-17 we will play Ft. Worth, Austin and New Orleans respectively, and May 28 we will play the Maryland Deathfest. It has been decided based on how excited Frankie was about playing these shows, and how much he loved the band both as a member and a fan of the music he played with us.

"We are looking forward to our return to our home away from home, the Dallas/ Ft. Worth area. Many friends await, and we are excited to play with RIGOR MORTIS, WORLD BENEATH WORLD, and the rest of the great bands on these bills.

"EXHORDER will get past these difficulties that face us at this moment. Even though we have already gotten into the writing process of our new album after working in new drummer Seth Davis, the time to focus on diving in to these songs could not be more imminent. We are aware that this recording is way overdue, but the inspiration could not be more tangible than it is now to deliver this to our fan base.

"Thanks, once again, to all that have been so kind and supportive to us in our darkest days. We will not let you down."

Sparcello joined EXHORDER prior to the recording sessions for the band's sophomore album, "The Law", which came out in 1992. The group broke up a short time later and reformed with its original lineup a few years later. Sparcello rejoined EXHORDER in 2009 and was scheduled to perform with the band at this year's Maryland Deathfest IX, which is set to take place May 26-29, 2011 at Sonar in Baltimore.

EXHORDER played the first concert with its new drummer Seth Davis on December 10, 2010 at The Hangar in the band's hometown. Video footage of the performance can be viewed below.