Italian symphonic metallers RHAPSODY OF FIRE have announced the name of a new band member who will join forces with Fabio Lione (vocals), Alex Staropoli (keyboards), Tom Hess (guitar) and Alex Holzwarth (drums).

German bass player Oliver Holzwarth (brother of Rhapsody Of Fire drummer Alex Holzwarth) has joined the band as an official and permanent member, and will be involved in both live performances and studio recordings.

Oliver is an excellent bass player who has toured with BLIND GUARDIAN, TARJA TURUNEN and SIEGES EVEN, and has recorded several studio albums with Blind Guardian.

Alex Staropoli says: "It's a true privilege and honor to have the two Holzwarth brothers playing together in Rhapsody Of Fire. I am sure it will be fantastic to have the best rhythmic section on this planet, a unique and true force of nature, on our side. I am really looking forward to hearing them shaking the stages around the world on our upcoming world tour."

Last month, after 15 years of friendship, hard work and passion, fully invested in the creation of symphonic music and an epic saga that will remain in the history of heavy metal, Rhapsody Of Fire's Alex Staropoli (keyboards) and Luca Turilli (guitars) agreed upon a friendly split. They issued the following statement:

"Ten albums released and the end of the saga represent, musically and lyrically, an important artistic goal finally reached, underlined by the success of our last release From Chaos To Eternity, for which we want to thank our wonderful fans once again. Now it came the time when new artistic stimulations need to be found, in respect of both parts’ visions and perspectives and of our longtime friendship."

Due to the latest legal agreements, Staropoli will go on with Rhapsody Of Fire. Under the same agreements and the original band name’s common ownership, Turilli will release his future works with a new RHAPSODY band, including the faithful band members Dominique Leurquin, Patrice Guers and Alex Holzwarth.

Staropoli: "While wishing the best to Luca and his new band, I want to tell you that Fabio and myself feel motivated and stronger than ever and that Rhapsody Of Fire are already planning a great worldwide tour. Stay tuned!”

The website www.rhapsodyoffire.com will remain active as Rhapsody Of Fire's official homepage, and www.algalordchronicles.com will remain tthe official fan club address.

All information on Turilli activities can be found at www.lucaturilli.com.