NWOBHM legends CLOVEN HOOF have parted ways with Ben Read (lead guitar), Mick Powell (rhythm guitar) and Jon Brown (drums). Bassist Lee Payne (bass) and stand-in vocalist Russ North are currently in negotiation with the promoters to see if they can still make the two previously announced festivals - September 10 at the 'Metal Warning Festival III' in Helsinki, Finland and September 11 at the 'Swordbrothers Festival' in Andernach, Germany - "out of loyalty to the fans."

According to a posting on the band's official web site, "CLOVEN HOOF have vowed to return stronger than ever with dedicated band members fit to be in the band."

Source: www.Blabbermouth.Net