Woah, this is a bit of bitter sweet news! Dirk Verbeuren has been named the official drummer for Megadeth, which is amazing. He's not only one of the best drummers in metal, but he's also one of the sweetest guys around.
Unfortunately, this means Dirk had to leave Soilwork in order to keep up this commitment to Mustaine & Co. As an integral part of Soilwork for over a decade now, it's hard to imagine the band without him. I guess we'll have to wait and see who replaces him in Soilwork now.
Here is the official statement from the Megadeth camp:
“MEGADETH are happy to announce the addition of Dirk Verbeuren as the band’s new drummer. Verbeuren, formerly of Swedish metal band Soilwork, has been performing with the band for months, his first show was Rock on the Range festival in May, to a crowd of 40,000 concertgoers.
Most recently, Lamb Of God drummer Chris Adler had performed all the drums on the band’s latest album, Dystopia, and had toured with MEGADETH when not otherwise busy with his band.
Said bandleader Dave Mustaine: “Chris Adler‘s contributions are sure to be felt for years to come. Megadeth has been revitalized by Chris‘ playing, as well as his excellent suggestion of Dirk Verbeuren to drum with us. Tremendous thanks to Chris, and a big welcome to Dirk.”
New drummer Verbeuren had this to say: “Dave, David and Kiko, I’m thankful for your warm welcome and thrilled at the opportunity to perform and create badass music with you guys. Chris Adler, thank you for introducing me to Megadeth – and for your encouragement and support.”
Said Adler: “It has been an honor and a pleasure to join my favorite band of all time, and to be a part of their return to the top. I had an amazing time with everyone involved, from the writing, arranging and recording, to the touring and friendships built along the way. There was no argument or drama, no hidden story. Megadeth needs and deserves a full time drummer, and as much as I’d like to be, I can’t be in two places at once.
For my part, I am very lucky to be a part of Lamb of God, and to also have gotten a chance to dance with my heroes at the ball. I still can’t believe it sometimes when I think of myself as a kid, opening up my Megadeth albums…and now I’m an alumni! I’m very proud of that – and I will continue to be their biggest fan.”
