In a statement that caught fans of the legendary Norwegian band by surprise, Hades Almighty frontman and bassist Janto has announced that after 22 years he will be leaving the band. Both Janto and the remaining members have reassured fans that his reasons for leaving are purely personal, and that relations between everyone are still as strong as they ever were.

Formed in 1992 by  guitarist Jorn (Dominanz, Old Funeral, Immortal, Amputation), and drummer Remi, Hades Almighty's last album was 2004's The Pulse Of Decay, and the band had recently announced that they had renewed their contract with Dark Essence Records and were working on  their next release. In a statement issued by  Jorn and Remi, both emphasized that this most definitely does not signify the end of a band, whose ability to convey the real darkness that lies within human passion had placed them in the forefront of the black metal genre, but rather a new beginning:

 

 

"Janto, The lead singer/bass player of Hades Almighty, has, after 22 years by our side, decided to leave the band permanently! There is no bad blood between us, as we still are best of friends, and will continue being friends. This is a decision he made completely by himself. Janto has been, and still is, a brilliant musician, bass player and composer, both musically and lyrically! It has been 22 years of great times, many, many inspirations in many ways. We salute you our brother in arms! More than two decades of dedication in The Horde Of Hades is something to be proud of, and we salute the raven of war and crimes in music and friendship! HAIL! We will continue working on the new album as planned and it is due to be finished in 2015. The EP, which was due to be released at the end of 2014 will suffer some delay because of this matter, but nothing significant! All shows are hereby cancelled, but we will of course return as soon as we have the opportunity!

This means that Hades Almighty is entering a new era, starting from this day forward! We would like to reach out to our followers, fans, promoters, record label, booking agencies, and crew, for a  little understanding that our already booked shows, and future plans, will be delayed! We are honestly sorry for that, and we are already in the process of finding a replacement for Janto, but that alone is a long process, and surely not an easy one!!”

 

 

Regarding his reasons for departure Janto had this to say:

"It has not been an easy decision, but it has been made. 22 years have passed and it has been a bumpy ride,  but... a great one.  I would like to thank all our fans and supporters throughout the years. You have been loyal and fantastic. I would also like to thank Jørn and Remi for all the good times in the rehearsal studio, on the road and on stage.  I wish you all the best in your future work with Hades. You are my best friends. My band days are over but our brotherhood remains!”