Sodom has always featured founding bassist and vocalist Tom Angelripper with a revolving cast of characters around him. Angelripper has been backed up by guitarist Bernd "Bernemann" Kost since 1996 and drummer Markus Freiwald since 2010, though today has made the announcement that both have departed the band. No word on who the new members to take their places are just yet, but Angelripper says the band is both working on a new album and will not cancel any of its upcoming shows.
Angelripper adds he wants to get "fresh and hungry musicians," so I guess it's safe to assume that the new guys won't be big names.
"After much thought and reflection, I have decided on this difficult step to pave the way for new challenges.
"Sodomhave always lived off the commitment and passion of everybody involved. Makka was part of the band for almost eight years, Bernemann even for more than twenty. To obviate a possible routine setting in which would make it impossible to continue our creative work optimally, I would like to start all over again with fresh and hungry musicians. At the same time, I would like to say thank you to Bernemann and Makka for many successful years in which we performed fantastic shows and released a number of real metal manifestos."
Irrespective of this lineup change, all scheduled Sodom shows will take place from April 2018 as announced. Tom is set to introduce his new comrades-in-arms at the Full Metal Mountain festival. Whether Sodom will continue to operate as a trio or perhaps become a quartet in future remains unclear. Tom says: "I haven't really made up my mind in this respect; I'm open to all options. I will now install the band's new foundation pillars and look around for new musicians. One thing is already clear: Sodom will become even stronger!"
