PRO-PAIN Parts Ways With Guitarist, Announces Replacement

Crossover veterans PRO-PAIN have issued the following update:

"It is with great sadness that we bring to you (the fans) the following news: Due to unexpected circumstances regarding some potentially serious health issues, our longtime lead guitarist and dear friend Tom Klimchuck will unfortunately have to put his musical endeavors on hold for at least the foreseeable future.

"Although we all wanted so much for Tom to be able to participate in the 20-year anniversary tours, we collectively decided that it was too risky and that his health and family should take precedence. Thankfully, (with Tom's blessing),we have found a replacement in Adam Phillips (INDORPHINE) and so the tours will move forward as planned. The fans can expect a great show, as we have quite an ambitious set list lined up for them.

"We welcome Adam aboard and we wish Tom a speedy and full recovery.

"Thank you all for your support during this difficult time and transition, and special thanks to Tom for his many years of flawless commitment to our beloved band (this tour's for you). We hope to see you all at the gigs!!"

Klimchuck has released the following statement regarding his departure from the group:

"Although thoroughly saddened by the realization that my time in PRO-PAIN is at its end, I look back with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. The band has been an absolute blessing to me. It has provided a platform with which to fight the good fight, and bring inspiration through commonality to people all around the world. All the while offering countless, magical experiences that most can only dream of.

"I owe a massive 'thank you!' to Gary, Marshall, Ricky, and Adam, as well as all previous members, and crew past and present; my brothers. It has been a privilege sharing the stage, and sharing so many incredible times with you all. These are the fabric of our souls, and you are all irreversibly woven into mine. A very special 'thank you' goes out to all the PRO-PAIN fans. It is a powerful thing to watch a large group of people, seemingly strangers to one another, find common ground, and even inspiration in something I have put my heart and soul into. This is the show you have given me as I've looked out from the stage to all of you, and the gift you have given me that I will have forever. I am eternally grateful."

PRO-PAIN will play its classic debut album, "Foul Taste Of Freedom" (1992),live in its entirety along with many other favorites on its upcoming "Foul Taste Of Freedom Tour 2011", celebrating the group's 20th anniversary. Main support on the trek will come from Germany's TENSIDE.

"Absolute Power", the thirteenth full-length album from PRO-PAIN, was released in North America on September 28, 2010 via Regain Records. According to a press release, the CD "explores several sides to the tried-and-true American unit's somewhat patented sound. While a vast chunk of the album immediately recalls standard PRO-PAIN New York City-style metal/hardcore crossover attacks, many elements at play on 'Absolute Power' infiltrate totally new ground for the band. Recorded at Little Creek Studio in Gelterkinden, Switzerland, the record features ten thunderous anthems, bridging the gap between the hardcore club and the massive rock arena."

Formed by vocalist/bassist Gary Meskil, PRO-PAIN has over the years benefited from substantial support from an ever-growing and loyal fanbase as well as metal media and radio. Rounded out by newer members Marshall Stephens on rhythm guitar and Ricky Halverson (ex-NARCOTIC SELF, CELLADOR, STEPHEN PEARCY) on drums, the band's worldwide catalog sales approach one million units.