Madrid, Spain-based power metallers DARK MOOR

have parted ways with guitarist Jose Garrido “because of professional reasons,” according to a posting on the band's web site. “His work in the Spanish band ARWEN and in his new record studio make him impossible to face the long tour that [comes along with being in a band like DARK MOOR].

“We want to add that Jose Garrido will collaborate in future projects of DARK MOOR, although not like an official member, [and] the relationship between Garrido and the rest of the band is very good. In spite of [Jose's departure], no one will take the place of Garrido in the band, neither in the tour nor in future recordings.

“Jose Garrido wants to thank to all the fans the good feelings of this months. In the future the members of DARK MOOR and the webmasters will follow the work of Jose in one of the best bands in Europe, ARWEN, and we will continue with the good friendship that give us the chance to create together our last album.”

DARK MOOR's fourth, self-titled album was released last November through Arise Records. The CD was recorded at New Sin Studios in Italy with producer Luigi Stefanini and was mastered at Finnvox studios in Helsinki, Finland with Mika Jussila.

February 20. 2004