Back in December of 2010, Avenged Sevenfold confirmed that Mike Portnoy would not continue with the band after the New Year. At the time, A7X had yet chosen who would be filling in behind the drum kit during their upcoming Nightmare After Christmas tour, which starts tonight. However, today the band officially announce that former Confide drummer Arin Ilejay will be joining the band on the tour.

A7X released the following statement:

“We recently asked several friends who knew Jimmy and his style, and also knew our music and each of our personalities  to suggest drummers to tour with us starting this year. Our long time studio drum tech, Mike Fasano, recommended Arin Ilejay. We’ve rehearsed with Arin and have been impressed with his technical skills, attitude and work ethic. We’re very excited to tour with Arin and hope all of you will give him the warm welcome to the family we have.

Thanks for your never ending support. It means the world to us. See you on the Nightmare After Christmas.”

Ilejay left Confide in 2009 before the metalcore group officially called it quits back in the Fall of 2010. It is still unsure, though, whether Ilejay will become the permanent replacement for the late Jimmy “Rev” Sullivan, or if he will just be playing with Avenged Sevenfold for the upcoming tour. We will keep you posted when more is revealed.

[statement via]