Adelitas Way are down one key member of their group as the band's guitarist Keith Wallen (pictured at far right in the photo above) has decided to exit the band. Wallen let his exit be known Tuesday (May 7) in a Facebook posting (excerpted by Examiner.com).

The guitarist, who was the last of the original members to join the Las Vegas-based band, came to the group after playing with Knoxville outfit Copper. Wallen's exit comes as the band has been holed up in Las Vegas writing new songs for their follow-up to their 2011 album, 'Home School Valedictorian.'

Wallen's statement reads as follows:

To all my Adelitas Way friends and fans, I would like to extend to you the greatest amount of respect and gratitude for accepting me into your hearts and stereos over the last four-and-a-half years, as I have decided to pursue other avenues of my career and will no longer be performing with Adelitas Way.
I've been truly blessed to have had the opportunity to tour the country multiple times playing music with some of my dearest friends. I would like to thank Rick, Derek, Rob, and Trevor for allowing me to create music with them for a little while, and I wish them all the best in their music careers and in life. It has been an honor every single day that I've had the privilege of performing with them. To all of their families who have at some time or another during various tours welcomed me into their homes, fed me, and allowed me to pretend that I was home again for a few fleeting moments, thank you for treating me as one of your own.
I want to thank all of Adelitas Way's affiliates, label, agents, and management for all of their expertise and hard work in their efforts to help us realize our goals and aspirations. And especially, I would like to thank all of you, the fans, who have tirelessly supported the band and myself along the way. It's truly been an amazing experience feeling your love and appreciation at every show and venue we've had the honor of playing, and I will never forget you. And even though my run with this band is coming to an end, I am excited for the next chapter, and I am looking forward to creating much more music in the days, months, and years ahead, so stay tuned. And one more thing while I have your attention, FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS." --Keith

The band has not named a replacement for Wallen, though work continues on their upcoming album.

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