Back in October, we discussed how throw back metal band White Wizzard has gone through a ton of lineup changes for a band that’s only had one full length album release and two EPs since forming in 2007. At that point, the band was at Mark III, with sole original member Jon Leon joined by Peter Ellis (the new singer), Giovanni Durst and Lewis Stephens. However, just five months after officially announcing this new lineup, White Wizzard has once again gone through a change. Apparently, Ellis’ U.S. visa issues are preventing him from participating in long term recording and touring. So while they apparently split on good terms, Ellis is out and the band once again goes through another singer.
But it seems like they may have learned their lesson in hiring new members, for White Wizzard has announced the return of vocalist Wyatt “The Screamin’ Demon” Anderson. “The Screamin’ Demon” is probably the best known frontman amongst White Wizzard fans since he sang on their first full length album Over The Top, which was released in 2010. So wait, not only have they been through a crap load of lineups, but White Wizzard has already “reunited” in its short lifespan?! Wow! The only band that really comes close to having this many members coming in and out so rapidly is Deep Purple, though that’s really the only comparison I’d ever make between the two.
Anderson is at the moment recording vocals for the band’s new record. In case you need proof, a picture of the recently reunited duo (Leon and Anderson) has already been posted online. Each party had a lot to say about the return of “The Screamin’ Demon” (and loss of Ellis), and their statements can be read after the jump. First, let’s hear from the main man (and bassist) Jon Leon:
“I am happy to announce that vocalist Wyatt Anderson has rejoined White Wizzard. I want to first and foremost thank Peter Ellis for giving us his all during the last few months. He is a great guy and we wish him all the best. I am sure he will find a great band and he will always be a part of us.
In the end Wyatt and I were able to find a way to make it work. It is what the fans have asked for as well. We know we had something special with Wyatt singing and myself writing, and we want to progress on that chemistry and keep moving forward. We found a way to work around some obstacles so we can pick up where we left off. Over the Top was an album we are both proud of. We are now recording the follow up due out early summer. We plan massive touring in 2011 as well. Thanks to our fans and I am proud and happy to say The Screamin’ Demon is back.”
Here is what “The Screamin’ Demon” had to add:
“Sometimes, people have to take a step back to gain perspective of their lives. That’s what I did. I didn’t see myself getting what I had always wanted out of a band at the level that White Wizzard was. I didn’t like being told what to do, not realizing that it was not only for the benefit of the band, but also for my benefit. Once I had stepped back, though, I began to see that I WAS getting what I had always wanted, it was just coming at a slower rate than what I had expected. Most people who dream of being in a professional band, spend their lives in pursuit of that dream, and never even come close; and I had just given it up. Fortunately, there is a silver lining to this story. White Wizzard and I have reconciled our differences, and I am proud to say that I will once again be handling the vocal duties. This is going to be an exciting time for all in the White Wizzard camp, and I look forward to seeing all of you fans out there once again.”
Just to prove that it was an amicable split, here is what (now former singer) Peter Ellis had to say about his departure:
“My departure from White Wizzard was due to the fact that it just proved impossible to get things done in time to keep up with the time schedule with me being based in London and the band being in Los Angeles because of complications that came up regarding my US VISA. The goal was for me to be a long term member of the band and I am very sorry that things didn’t work out. I have had an amazing experience being the lead singer for the band and I found Jon being a true gentleman and one of the easiest people to work with. I would also like to thank Earache for giving me the chance to be on the “Shooting Star” single and for being so nice to me since day one and most importantly I’d like to thank all the fans for being so supportive of me and making me feel so loved! I have already started working on a new band here in London and we are going to be doing some really cool things in the new year. Expect more news about that soon. Meanwhile keep checking my Facebook and MySpace pages for updates.”
As usual, we’ll keep you updated when White Wizzard goes through another lineup change (give it another 5 months).
