Christopher Amott, Arch Enemy: Guitarist Quits Swedish Metal Band

Century Media

Certain genres demand almost cult-like devotion from musicians, and Arch Enemy belongs to one of those genres. Announcing the departure of guitarist Christopher Amott, the Swedish band could have boiled today's official statement down to one telling sentence: "Christopher simply isn't into playing extreme metal anymore."

Instead, the group chose to elaborate and ensure fans that the split was amicable. It was also a bit of deja vu, as Amott left the band in 2005, nearly a decade after he'd been a founding member. He returned in 2007 and had been on board ever since.

"We thank Christopher for the time he's worked with the band and of course wish him the very best in his future endeavours," the announcement reads. "Thankfully, there is no drama behind the scenes here. This is the best way forward for all involved."

The group will continue its 'Khaos Legions' tour as planned and has already hired a replacement, 26-year-old American axeman Nick Cordle. Presumably, he's still into playing extreme metal.

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