Dutch symphonic metallers Delain have issued the following band lineup news:

"Today we share with you the news that our drummer and friend Sander Zoer has decided to take a step back as Delain’s main man behind the drums, due to some major recent changes impacting his personal life. Though he will be stepping out of the limelight, we are happy that he will still be active for Delain behind the screens and our friendship will continue off-stage.

Also, we are very happy to introduce to you Ruben Israel who will step in as Delain’s new drummer. Some of you will already know Ruben from when he joined us on our US tour with Kamelot last fall; this is where we got to know Ruben as the great guy and great drummer he is. We are confident that he will do an absolutely fantastic job and warmly welcome him to the Delain family!

Ruben will continue where he started and will replace Sander behind the drums starting our upcoming US tour with Sonata Arctica this fall. Sander will be performing all festivals with Delain until September, except for June 6th at Luxor Live in Arnhem where Ruben will fill in. There will be a special gig with Sander in his former hometown Groningen, on October 24th.

Sander states: “Eight years ago I took place on the Delain drum chair and this is the best choice I’ve ever made, but now the time has come to take some steps back. I need more time for my other activities in Delain behind the screens, to develop myself, other projects and jobs, and family. However I will not completely disappear from the radar; you might see me behind the drums at some venues or festivals from time to time. I want to thank the Delain family for all the good times, and a very big thanks you to all fans around the world!”

Ruben states: “When Delain asked me to join them on their US/CAN tour last year, I didn’t want to let the opportunity go by. I enjoyed every minute of the tour, the country, the music, and the fans we met on the road. Also I became good friends with the band. Needless to say, when the question came, I didn’t have to think twice about stepping in officially and join the team to play the drums with Delain. I can’t wait to start this new adventure with Delain and meet you all!”

Check all upcoming Delain gigs at this location.