Sodom mainman and sole remaining founding member Thomas "Angelripper" Such, has parted ways with drummer Markus "Makka" Freiwald and guitarist Bernd "Bernemann" Kost.

Says Tom Angelripper: "After much thought and reflection, I have decided on this difficult step to pave the way for new challenges. Sodom have 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."

Despite this lineup change, all planned Sodom shows will take place from April 2018 as announced. Tom is set to introduce his new brothers in crime at the Full Metal Mountain festival. Being asked if Sodom will continue to operate as a trio or perhaps will become a quartet remains uncertain.

Explains Angelripper:

"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!"

Sodom tour dates:

Apr. 7 - AT - Kärnten - Full Metal Mountain
Jun. 21-23 - FI - Kauhajoki - Nummirock
Jun. 23 - DK - Copenhagen - Copenhell
Jul. 4-7 - DE - Ballenstedt - Rock Harz Open Air
Jul. 14 - SE - Gävle - Gefle Metal
Aug. 18 - AT - Graz - Metal On The Hill
Aug. 25 - DE - Cham - Mosh Club Open Air
Aug. 31 - DE - Hamburg - Weltturbojugendtage
Oct. 6 - DE - Lichtenfels - Way Of Darkness