SHINEDOWN vocalist Brent Smith has issued the following update:

"I wanted to reach out to all of the Shinedown fans myself and let you know what's going on firsthand. A lot has happened this past year and there have been some changes within the band that we've been meaning to tell you about. I love Jasin (Todd, guitarist) like a brother, we all do - he'll always be family and we hope all of the best for him, but, at this time, he's no longer with us in Shinedown. This all went down awhile ago, and I'm sorry to break this news today. I realize that this isn't the best timing, but with stuff like this, there really isn't ever a good time. We just felt like we couldn't wait any longer and had to let you all know. We've brought an old friend into SD - Nick Perri. Nick's an amazing guitarist and we've known him forever from our days on the road with SILVERTIDE (many of you were probably at those shows and remember him too). We also have a new bass player - Eric Bass. Just a fantastic musician and all around great guy - we can't wait for you to meet him. And you will very soon - we're hitting the road next month. I'm also happy to report that the new album is finished and we're so excited to share it with all of you. It's called The Sound Of Madness and will be out this summer... the first song is coming soon. Lastly, I just want to thank you again for all of your support. You're the best fans in the world and the reason we're even here. Without you, there is no Shinedown. Don't ever forget that - we definitely don't."