Los Angeles power trio, NINTH CIRCLE, wrapped up their spring tour on Saturday, May 21st at the inaugural 2011 Inland Empire Metal Fest in front of hordes of fans who turned out for the all-day event.

Bassist Frank Forray comments: "It’s been a fun a spring tour, with the exception Dave (Davis/drums) has been on the side lines while he’s recovering from back surgery. We kicked off 2011 with big plans; shows PAUL DI'ANNO and QUIET RIOT, and with the intention of writing and recording the new record in the first half of the year. We’re pretty close to being done with writing, but there are just a few songs we need to finish up when Dave gets back. We’re just adjusting our schedule a bit… this is rock ‘n’ roll after all!"

"This past Saturday’s show was pretty special. Dave was there to support the band and fill-in drummer Jim Standerfer. It was pretty cool to have all of us there hanging out before and after the show. Dave looked great and he’s getting stronger every day, but he is still weeks away from returning. The band is excited Dave is that much closer to returning behind the drums. I have a feeling it will be an emotional moment for the band the first time we get back in the studio and Dave sits behind the drums. It’s been a long time since Dave’s sat back there to drive the Ninth Circle engine. I know he will be better and stronger than before!”

"At this point we are in the planning stages for some possible summer shows which will consist of Dave’s comeback show. We are also working on writing the new album and preparing to be back in the studio to rehearse the new songs so we can begin recording as soon as Dave’s back. It is a bit of tough spot at the moment because fans want us out on the road and they want a new record. I keep saying you’ll see us soon at few big summer shows and hang tight because the new record will be recorded this year!”

Stay tuned for more updates. Check out Ninth Circle's official website here.