Swedish black/death metallers DARK FUNERAL check in with the following update from guitarist Lord Ahriman:

"The black circle has been closed once again and it is with great pleasure that we would like to announce and welcome our new bass player, Zornheym.

Now, that we face our new line up, I must say that the atmosphere and the chemistry within the band feels absolutely fantastic. Furthermore, every single member of Dark Funeral is once again sharing a tremendously strong commitment, an absolute dedication as well as utter professionalism. And I am absolutely sure that what you, our dear fans, soon will be able to witness that this unholy gathering of these five knights in Satan’s service is the most sinful and powerful Dark Funeral ever!

We have rehearsed together for a few months already. And it feels like we are already tighter and sound much better than ever before. So once we kick off touring again, we will be like an infernal war machine that will crush everything in its path."

Zornheym comments : It is with great honor to be now part of this undefeatable armada of black metal warriors. When you join the truly ineffable Kings of Swedish black metal it is beyond doubt that great excitement accompanies this unholy path of trampled souls. Onwards into Battle! The circle is closed!"

Dark Funeral recently enlisted Nachtgarm (NEGATOR) as the band's new singer, Emperor Magus Caligula who had been with the band for 15 years.

Dark Funeral recently announced their confirmation for 70000 Tons Of Metal, which will sail Monday, January 23rd, 2012 aboard the Royal Caribbean Majesty Of The Seas from Miami FL to George Town, Cayman Islands and will not return you to the real world for four days until Friday, January 27th, 2012.

So far 14 out of a total of 40 bands on board are known:

AMORPHIS

CORONER

DARK FUNERAL

ELUVEITIE

GRAVE DIGGER

IN EXTREMO

MOONSORROW

MY DYING BRIDE

NIGHTWISH

PESTILENCE

SAMAEL

STRATOVARIUS

THERION

TRISTANIA

Ticket prices start at US$666 plus US$289 taxes and fees per person and include all on-board entertainment, non-alcoholic and non-carbonated beverages, all meals at the dining rooms, most on-board restaurants and even 24 hr. room service!

Check out 70000tons.com for more information.