Stratovarius' Long-Time Bassist Departs

Finnish melodic metallers STRATOVARIUS have parted ways with longtime bassist Jari Kainulainen. In a posting to the band's official forum, STRATOVARIUS mainman/guitarist Timo Tolkki writes, "Some of you have heard rumors that Jari Kainulainen has left STRATOVARIUS. Unfortunately I have to tell you that they are true. This is due to personal reasons. We will release official statement regarding that soon."

STRATOVARIUS' new self-titled album is scheduled for release on September 5 via Sanctuary Records. A video for the album's first single, "Maniac Dance", was shot on April 15 in Helsinki by director and guitarist Timo Tolkki's old schoolmate Antti Jokinen (BEYONCÉ, WYCLEF JEAN, KORN, MISSY ELLIOT, NIGHTWISH, SHANIA TWAIN, CELINE DION).

STRATOVARIUS will be teaming up with INTO ETERNITY for a North American tour beginning in mid-September.

Source: Blabbermouth