In a Jan. 20 statement to its fans, the band said the rumors of Roberts’ departure are true.

“Every band has its growing pains, and after 18 months in the trenches, relentless touring and living together, we all came to the conclusion that a change had to be made,” the statement said. “It was a mutual agreement between the band and Darrell, and both parties wanted to handle this with class and as friends in our own time and on our own terms. However, the rumor mill seems to work faster than anyone thought…”

“It was a swift and smooth transition and we all remain good friends. All clichés aside, we really wish him the best on his musical endeavors.”

Taking over the second guitarist spot is Jason Hook, a friend of the band who recently toured with Alice Cooper.

Five Finger Death Punch will spend part of its overseas road trip on Metal Hammer’s “Defenders of the Faith” tour featuring Lamb Of God and Dimmu Borgir, followed by some headlining dates through March 3.