"Dear Celesty Fans We are sorry to announce that Celesty will go to indefinite hiatus. During the time, when 5th album songs have been in progress, there has been mixed feelings in the air for a longer period of time now. Situation in the band has come to the point, where only solution is to take a break. Will that break be a year or ten, we don´t know, but this is the only way to take the time that we need. This decision is mutual by all members of the band."

With deep sadness we have to say goodbye to one of the most underrated guitar players and composers on this planet: Mark Reale.

With albums like Fire Down Under or Thundersteel he created timeless metal music which will stand the test of time for many more decades.

Last years studio album Immortal Soul on remains his legacy, and what an album it was: RIOT were back for the attack!

We will see how the remaining members will handle this but we think that Mark would be very proud of them if they continue and spread the music he created.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mark's family, friends, and bandmates.

SPV GmbH / Steamhammer

Hannover, Germany

The Smoot family and Slave Pit Inc. released a statement regarding the official cause of death of guitarist Cory Smoot. Cory had played the character of Flattus Maximus for over ten years, and was discovered dead on the band's tour bus on Nov. 3rd of this year. He was 34.

Stated North Dakota coroner William Masselo, MD:

"We have finalized the autopsy report and death certificate. I have determined that Cory died from a coronary artery thrombosis brought about by his pre-existing coronary artery disease."

The band, which will continue as a four-piece until the current tour schedule is complete, has officially retired the character of Flattus ...