Finland's Simulacrum have separated amicably with guitarist Petri Mäkilä, who was a part of the band's sound on both 2015's Sky Divided and the new 2021 release Genesis. The band decided to move forward with guitarist Antti Karhumaa. Antti has already started rehearsing the material for live shows.

Statement from the band as follows: "So, time for some news! The band has parted ways with guitarist Petri Mäkilä and welcome Antti Karhumaa into the band. There is absolutely no drama. Petri wanted to focus more on his life as an entrepreneur and keep music as a hobby. Anyway... Antti has been rehearsing hard and we have about 50 min of songs to play live with him as soon as Covid permits."

Petri Mäkilä regarding his departure: "With a heavy heart I have decided to step aside from Simulacrum. This band has meant the world to me and I recorded my first ever commercial album with them. Nonetheless, my energy levels are limited, and I have chosen to focus on my career as an entrepreneur and keep my own music projects as a hobby. I wish the guys all the best in the future and from now on, I will be cheering them on in the audience and looking forward to what they come up with!"

"I have always been a fan of many kinds of musical styles and have tried to explore the secrets of the electric guitar as much as possible. Besides, I have always been hungry for challenges and joining Simulacrum was an excellent opportunity to expand my musical abilities while getting my technique polished. When Chrism asked me to audition for the band, I was ready for this opportunity! We've been friends for many years and have loads of mutual favourite bands such as Symphony X and Dream Theater, so I had a good feel of what I was expected to pull off. Luckily, I got the job and am looking forward to playing on stage in the future to the fans and making some killer music with these guys! Prog'n Roll!", says Antti Karhumaa.

Source:	facebook.com
Band profile:	Simulacrum