In news that are bound to make a long lasting impact on the metal kingdom, Seattle’s progressive riffing engine NEVERMORE is facing undeniably hard times as shred-god Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams have quit the band. We repeat, Jeff Loomis and Van Williams have left Nevermore. The band’s latest (and last?) album, The Obsidian Conspiracy was released almost a year ago. Both musicians had been with the band pretty much from the beginning. The two had this to say:

“In a mutual decision Jeff Loomis and Van Williams have decided to leave Nevermore. The time has come to pursue our own paths from the group. Due to internal struggles and ongoing issues within the band, we feel it is our time to move on. We would like to thank all of our fans around the world for their years of love, support and enthusiasm. This was not an easy decision but a very necessary one at this point, may we all meet again someday, somewhere in time.”

To some, this comes as no surprise — especially after the band cancelled some high profile shows. On the other hand, singer/lyricist Warrel Dane also reformed Sanctuary not too long ago.

What this means to Nevermore is left in the open as there is no confirmation on what Dane, bassist Jim Shephard (aside from recovering from the removal of a brain tumor) or touring member Attila Vörös will do from now on with the band. If anything.