“Having gone through a good process and discussion with the members of the band, we hereby announce that our drummer, Abah Andris, is no longer with Burgerkill,” wrote the band. “We respectfully understand his decision and we hope that he will not change one of the things that we like most, that is having him as an inspiring friend."

In an interview with music website Riotic Records, Abah explains that his departure from the band is not because of Cowboy From Hell (CFH), his clothing store. “If focusing on CFH was my reason for leaving (the band), I would have done it sooner.” Stirring the curiosity of his fans, he adds, “I will let you guess why I left the band.”

(Read also: 'Metal Hammer' honors Indonesian Burgerkill, veteran bands)

Abah Andris' leaving will not stop Burgerkill from making a new album. In their official statement, the band also announced their plan to record a new album at the end of the year. “It is an album portraying our love for the music we have played for more than two decades, as well as a dedication to those who have made contributions to the band,” they said.

Drummer Abah Andris officially joined Burgerkill in 2000, although he had been close to the band before that. On Burgerkill’s third album, "Beyond Coma and Despair" (2006), Abah performed as both drummer and bassist. Together with the band, he also performed at metal music festival Wacken Open Air in Germany, and at Bloodstock Open Air in the UK in 2015. (asw)

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