Cirith Ungol has unfortunately parted ways with guitarist Jim Barraza due to ongoing health issues. Barraza originally played for Cirith Ungol between 1988 and 1992, and then again between 2015 and 2023. Cirith Ungol notes they'll continue on in the absence of Barraza to promote their new record Dark Parade, due out October 20.
"Due to ongoing health issues, we have parted ways with guitarist Jimmy Barraza," wrote Cirith Ungol in their statement. "We sincerely wish him all the best going forward and much success in his future endeavors.
"At this cruical fork in the road the band had two choices; to retire like we did in 1991, or to keep going, pulling together and becoming stronger in the process.
"With the release of our epic new album Dark Parade on October 20, we chose the latter. We chose to honor our committments to our fans and do justice to an album we have worked incredibly hard to craft.
"Thanks to everyone for your continued love and support. There are no words for how much it means to Cirith Ungol as a band, and we're so excited to see you at one of our upcoming shows."
