Former CHIMAIRA drummer Austin D'Amond (pictured) has joined DEVILDRIVER — the California-based band fronted by COAL CHAMBER singer Dez Fafara — as the replacement for the recently departed John Boecklin.

Said Austin: "Thanks, everyone, for all the support through my career. Without you all, I would've never made it this far. I promise to give you all one hell of a performance!!!"

He added: "Keep shredding, peeps!!! Dreams do come true."

Boecklin and guitarist Jeff Kendrick exited DEVILDRIVER in October. Dez stated at the time: "Nothing dramatic [happened], [and there were] no drag-down fights; [it was] just time to move on.

He added: "As I have said previously, DEVILDRIVER is on hiatus while I rejoin COAL CHAMBER for a new record release and tour.

"DEVILDRIVER will be back, make no mistake of that, in 2016 with a new record which we are already writing, tours around the world and the massive pits you have all gotten used to.

"All in DEVILDRIVER wish John and Jeff the best."