Italian symphonic death metal band Genus Ordinis Dei confirmed that their drummer/founding member Richard Meiz has decided to leave the band after 12 years.

Full statement from the band: "With great regret we inform you that Richard Meiz has decided to leave the band. As many of you know, Richard was never just the drummer of Genus Ordinis Dei but one of the four minds that have always enlightened and moved the band forward and for this we want to thank him from the bottom of our hearts.

"We like to depict our group as a four-headed Hydra that walks inexorably towards its own vision. With great sadness, a few months ago, we took note of Richard's final choice and in the end we understood and accepted it. Now It's time to tell it to all of you.

"The band is already working for the future of Genus Ordinis Dei and we want to tell you that we have never stopped. The wounded Hydra is walking towards its regeneration. Together with all of you we want to officially greet Richard, wishing him the best for all his present and future projects. At the end of 2011, in a rehearsal room in Crema four youngsters met for the first time all together with the only dream of one day carving their name on the Heavy Metal tables."

Source:	facebook.com
Band profile:	Genus Ordinis Dei