Chicago's DIRGE WITHIN have issued the following band lineup news from vocalist Jerms:

"Myself, and the rest of the guys in Dirge Within are very happy to announce Frankie Harchut (ex-THE DOOMSDAY CATALYST) as our new drummer!

I have known Frankie for about 10 years, and performed alongside him in previous bands. So I know his talent as a musician, and performer firsthand.

Even though Jimmy will be missed, I couldn't think of anyone better to fill the void than this guy. He is a perfect fit with the DW both in talent, and personality. We are stoked to see what the future brings, and can't wait to get back out on the road, and tear shit up with Frankie on the skins! His first show as a member of Dirge Within will be May 15th at Austin’s in Libertyville, IL, with LACUNA COIL. So come on out, and welcome Frankie to the party!"

A message from departing drummer Jimmy Knight reads: "After a few great years, many amazing shows and memories, I have made the tough decision to leave the band to pursue other career opportunities. I want to thank all the fans who supported the band over the years as well as all the new fans who are just hearing of Dirge Within, you are all true fans and it was a great feeling that you dug our music, thank you again.

I'd also like to thank Scott from E1 Entertainment, Justin and Darren from 5 B Artist Management and my friends in the band, Jerms, Shaun, Matt and James. You guys are my brothers. I wish nothing but success and happiness for Dirge Within. Good luck and take care all, and cheers!!"

Dirge Within recently announced two new shows on their never ending touring cycle this spring.

May 15th will be with LACUNA COIL in Libertyville, IL at The Fuel Room and May 17th the band will take part in the Jagermeister Music Tour featuring KORN at First Avenue in Minneapolis, MN.

Tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

The band is continuing their ongoing tour campaign by recently announcing a tour with the mighty GWAR this summer. Dates include:

June

1 - Toledo, OH - Headliners
2 - Palatine, IL - Durty Nellies
4 - Ft. Collins, CO - Aggie Theatre
5 - Grand Junction, CO - Mesa Theatre & Club
7 - San Antonio, TX - White Rabbit
9 - Mobile, AL - Soul Kitchen
10 - Jackson, MS - Club Fire
11 - Memphis, TN - New Daisy Theatre
14 - Raleigh, NC - Lincoln Theatre
15 - N. Myrtle Beach, SC - House of Blues SC
16 - Richmond, VA - The National
17 - Allentown, PA - Crocodile Rock
18 - Sayreville, NJ - Starland Ballroom
19 - Poughkeepsie, NY - The Chance
20 - Boston, MA - House of Blues Boston
22 - Farmingdale, NY - The Crazy Donkey
23 - Syracuse, NY - Westcott Theatre
24 - Millvale, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre
25 - Lexington, KY - Buster's Billiards & Backroom
26 - Rutland, OH - 2010 Interpunk American Skate Fest

Dirge Within's debut album, Force Fed Lies, was released on September 1st, 2009 via E1 Music. The CD was mixed by Jeff Rose and Martin "Ginge" Ford of Nott-In-Pill studios in Newport, Wales, United Kingdom. Edsel Dope (DOPE) produced the effort alongside Chris Djuricic (Studio One). The album features guest appearances by Corey Beaulieu of TRIVUM and Michael Angelo Batio of NITRO. Stephen Jensen created the cover artwork from F3 studios. Fans can purchase / preview here.

The 'Forever the Martyr' video was filmed in Charlotte, North Carolina with director Ramon Boutviseth (TRIVIUM, INCUBUS). You can view the clip below.