UK bashers Absolva have announced that bass player Dan Bate has called it quits. The band's statement, issued via their officialFacebook page, is available below:

"With sincere regret we have to announce that Dan Bate has left Absolva with immediate effect. This situation had not been anticipated but has been discussed in detail and sadly we've accepted Dan's explanation that he feels unable to commit himself 100% to the band going forward and therefore has no choice but to reluctantly give up his position as bassist.

Although we're more than a little shocked at this turn of events, the situation has been entirely amicable and we have nothing but good to say about Dan and his period with the band. The past 2 years have seen him working hard, playing some incredible shows and we've had many laughs together where his wit and humour have been especially welcome during long hours on the road. In this period he's grown significantly as a musician. We're very sad to see him depart and we thank him wholeheartedly for all his contribution to the music and work of Absolva. We wish Dan every success and good fortune with all that he does in future.

Regarding the future for Absolva, it'll come as no surprise to many of you that Luke Appleton will be stepping in as bassist on the forthcoming tour dates both in Scotland and in Europe. Anyone interested in an audition for the full-time position as bassist should email chris_apps2000@yahoo.co.uk

Thanks for your continued incredible support. See you out there!"

Absolva released their new album, Anthems To The Dead, on May 5th via Rocksector Records. The band issued the first single/video, for the track "Never Back Down", featuring guest performances from Doug Scarratt of Saxon on lead guitar, and Luke Appleton of Iced Earth on rhythm guitar and harmony lead guitar.

Anthems To The Dead tracklisting:

"The Devil's Mouth" (featuring Luke Appleton)
"Victimiser"
"Never Back Down" (featuring Doug Scarratt, Luke Appleton)
"Anthems To The Dead"
"In Some Wild Universe"
"The Alter And The Cross"
"Live For The Fight"
"Killing Season"
"Taste The Blood"
"Soul Remains" (featuring Doug Scarratt)
"Silent Sacrifice" (featuring Luke Appleton)

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