Adrenaline Mob Lose Two Members

Guitarist Rich Ward, who cut his teeth in Stuck Mojo and Fozzy, and bassist Paul DiLeo, also of Fozzy, have left Adrenaline Mob before the band has issued its upcoming debut album. The remaining members are ex-Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy, Symphony X singer Russell Allen and guitarist Mike Orlando.

Ward issued an exclusive and rather detailed statement to Blabbermouth about bouncing from the band, which isn't dramatic or the result of a blowout or anything of the sort. It was just a matter of all the members juggling multiple commitments and realizing that they aren't on the same page when it comes to Adrenaline Mob. Ward was more than complimentary about working with Portnoy, as well.

Ward's statement read as follows:

"When I was first asked about coming on board as the second guitarist for the Adrenaline Mob project, it was understood that every member of the band had other band commitments, most of us having multiple active music projects. We all acknowledged that it would be a challenge to make it work, but we all agreed that the lineup's potential was worth making the necessary compromises in each of our schedules.

"In recent months, it was made clear that after the release of the band's album, scheduling around my previous commitments wasn't going to be possible, and that it would be necessary to make Adrenaline Mob my sole priority. This basically meant that if I was to move forward with the Adrenaline Mob guys, I would only be available to continue on recording and touring with Fozzy, Stuck Mojo and Walking With Kings when the Adrenaline Mob wasn't working. That's a commitment I just couldn't make. So I contacted Mike Portnoy and told him that I would need to step down and allow the band to find a guy who has the ability to fully commit to the project the way they need him to. His response was gracious and completely understanding.

"The experience of playing in a band with Portnoy was amazing. I've never met a more passionate, committed musician all my years, and always a complete gentleman towards me. Playing with musicians of that caliber was an honor and a privilege. I hope they go on to the great things they deserve."

'Omertá,' the debut release from Adrenaline Mob, is due to drop on March 13 via Elm City Music. Let's hope they find replacements on the quick so they can hit the road and tour.