ENGEL Parts Ways With Bassist

August 14, 2008

ENGEL — the Gothenburg, Sweden-based quintet featuring guitarists Marcus Sunesson (ex-THE CROWN) and Niclas Engelin (PASSENGER, ex-GARDENIAN, IN FLAMES),drummer Mojjo (RELEVANT FEW, DRACENA) and vocalist Mangan Klavborn — has parted ways with bassist Michael Håkansson (ex-EVERGREY).

Håkansson commented: "To all you great people out there who has shown your big support and interest in my participation in ENGEL, I am sad to announce my departure from ENGEL.

"It hasn't been an easy decision for me to make... It was a really hard one but at this time I felt it was the right one for me to make. I am not leaving for another band or for any personal- or business-related issues within the band. Not at all!!!

"It's been a blast to be a part of this fantastic band and one part of me would still like to be a part of ENGEL's future. For I see nothing but success for ENGEL; the potential has no limits with these guys. I've been given a once-in-a-lifetime offer that I just couldn't say no to. I am now leaving my other big dream in life.

"I want to thank the wonderful guys in the band... Niclas, Mojjo, Marcus and Mangan… you guys rule!! Thanks for two fantastic years together and all the fun we had during the recording of the album and the tours we did together."

The remaining members of ENGEL said in a statement: "We totally respect Michael's decision and wish him the very best in his future endeavours. Thanks for those years and all the laughs. Of course it's sad to lose a member but rest assured the ENGEL machinery is working on like before."

ENGEL's debut album, "Absolute Design", received its long-awaited U.S. release on May 20 via SPV/Steamhammer.

IN FLAMES frontman Anders Fridén helped his old friend Niclas (they both played together in PASSENGER) record demos and assisted in the production of the "Absolute Design" CD at Dug-Out Studios in Uppsala with Daniel Bergstrand (producer of IN FLAMES, MESHUGGAH).

"Next Closed Door", the latest video from ENGEL, can be viewed below. The clip was filmed in Belgrade, Serbia with Rock The Nation. The track comes off ENGEL's debut album, "Absolute Design", which received its long-awaited U.S. release on May 20 via SPV/Steamhammer.

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