Avenged Sevenfold Reveal They Have a New batterista in Place 

Avenged Sevenfold Reveal They Have a New Drummer in Place

Avenged Sevenfold raised a few eyebrows earlier this year when it was revealed that they were parting ways with drummer Arin Ilejay, who had been with the band since 2011. At the time, they didn’t reveal whether or not they had his replacement, which has led to a few inquiries.

Earlier today, we posted about Chris Hawkins, a U.S. Army soldier who decided to take a chance and submit an audition video with several testimonials for the band to check out in hopes of catching their eye. However, it doesn’t look like Hawkins will get the gig as Avenged Sevenfold have revealed that they have a new drummer already in place.

The band issued a statement letting it be known that no more audition videos would need to be sent as they’ve been working with Ilejay’s replacement for some time now. However, they were impressed by Hawkins’ audition and had some kind words for the soldier, while also posting his video on their website. Check out the band’s statement on the matter below.

It has been brought to our attention that a lot of videos have been posted online from some pretty amazing drummers who want to try out for Avenged Sevenfold. While we appreciate the overwhelming interest and support we thought it would be the right thing to do to let everyone know that we already have someone. In fact, we have been working with this person for over a year now to make sure that it was a correct fit before making any sudden changes. When we have more to share we will be sure to do that. As for Mr. Chris Hawkins, you rule brother. We look forward to hearing about any future musical endeavors you may have. We appreciate the video and your service to our country. We will reach out and would love to meet with you when our paths cross next.

Avenged Sevenfold formed with The Rev being one of the band’s creative forces behind the kit. After his death in 2009, the group briefly played with Mike Portnoy, The Rev’s favorite drummer, sitting in. After a year with Portnoy, the band then moved on and recruited Ilejay as their drummer. There is no word as of yet who their next drummer will be.

Avenged Sevenfold are reportedly working on new music and they’ve also gotten involved with providing premium content for the upcoming ‘Guitar Hero Live‘ video game. Stay tuned to find out who’s currently behind the kit for Avenged Sevenfold.

See Where The Rev Ranks Among Our Top 50 Hard Rock + Metal Drummers of All Time

Watch U.S. Army Soldier Chris Hawkins\' Avenged Sevenfold Audition

Filed Under: Avenged Sevenfold Category: Metal | News | Rock

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