The statement in full reads:
Serpentine, the British melodic rock quintet currently in pre-production for their third album with producer and songwriter Gary Hughes [of Ten] have parted company with lead vocalist Matt Black, who wishes to move into a different direction musically, away from the melodic rock sound the band are associated with.
The band, who were initially fronted by Shy/TNT vocalist Tony Mills, burst on to the scene in 2010 with their critically acclaimed, and Japanese charting, Touch Of Heaven album, and went on to release their second full album Living And Dying In High Definition, in 2011.
Mills, who departed in 2011 to concentrate on TNT, was replaced by the hitherto unknown Matt Black and a series of UK tours with the likes of Crashdiet, Ten, FM and Romeo’s Daughter cemented Serpentine’s reputation as an exciting live band, which led to appearances at many major festivals at home and abroad.
This decision was reached while writing for their next record, when it became apparent that the music the band was composing was at odds with the direction Matt wanted to take.
Serpentine’s Gareth David Noon commented: “We wish Matt all the very best for the future. He has been a tremendous asset for Serpentine in the live arena and we remain on excellent terms. Matt had certain ideas for the band but the truth is that the rest of us had a clear vision for the next record that we weren’t prepared to compromise on. Serpentine is evolving and we will be back with a bang in 2014.”
On his departure, Matt says: “It has been a tough choice to make, but I want to take a different road in my musical style. I would like to thank Serpentine, the management and fans for all the amazing support, friendship and good times we’ve shared. It’s been an honour to share the stage with such amazing musicians. I wish the band all the best for the future and I sincerely hope they continue to do the ‘business’ on and off stage.”
Serpentine’s search for a new vocalist has already started and the band have been flattered by some of the candidates who have so far applied. A shortlist will be drawn up shortly prior to auditioning.
Any other interested parties can apply by messaging the band’s Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/
source: classicrockmagazine.com