Melodic death metal band INSOMNIUM has officially parted ways with guitarist Jani Liimatainen. According to INSOMNIUM‘s statement, Liimatainen stopped talking to his bandmates and they couldn’t wait any longer. Liimatainen played for INSOMNIUM between 2019 and now, and will then continue to be accompanied by Ville Friman, Brandon Ellis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER), and Nick Cordle (OMNIUM GATHERUM) live.
It is worth noting that Jani Liimatainen released a solo record under his own name in 2022 with the title “My Father’s Son”, and (apparently) appeared on the 2023 album INSOMNIUM in the album “Anno 1696”.
“Many of you have asked where Jani Liimatainen is and why there has been no update on his status in the band,” wrote INSOMNIUM. “The answer is very simple: For a long time we didn’t know where he was and we couldn’t contact him in any way.”
“The reason why we are not addressing this situation openly is because we have not given up hope. Of course, Jani has been a close friend and valued member of the band for many years. We want to allow him to resolve this issue, situation or at least give a statement to his fans.”
“Sadly it is now evident that Jani and the other INSOMNIUM members have different priorities. Therefore, we have agreed to separate and INSOMNIUM will continue as a 4-member band from now on.”
“This will not affect upcoming live shows: Ville Friman will join for the show in Finland, Brandon Ellis (THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER), and Nick Cordle (OMNIUM GATHERUM) have agreed to fill in on second guitar during the upcoming North American concert tour come.”
“We wish Jani all the best for the future and would like to thank him for the years he spent with INSOMNIUM.”
INSOMNIUM line up:
Niilo Sevänen – Bass, Vocals
Markus Hirvonen – Drums
Ville Friman – Guitars, Vocals (Clean)
Markus Vanhala – Guitars
Homepage: https://www.insomnium.net
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insomniumofficial