After seventeen years of playing together, Amon Amarth is moving on without their long-time drummer, Fredrik Andersson. The Swedish metal band broke the news to fans today via a brief announcement on their Facebook page.

Amon Amarth and drummer Fredrik Andersson have decided to part ways after 17 years. Fredrik has been an important part of Amon Amarth’s development since he joined the band in 1998 and we wish him all the best for the future. We are currently in the process of writing the new album, but at the moment there is no replacement for him.

Andersson took to his official Facebook fan page to make a statement of his own as well, making sure to emphasize that he doesn’t plan to discuss the matter further.

I am no longer the drummer in Amon Amarth. We have decided to part ways and I wish them all the best in the future.
I will not answer any questions about why or how simply because it’s private. I’m finalizing the last details with the new This Ending (Official) CD, and we will look into releasing that somehow during this year, stay tuned. I will also evaluate any future opportunities.

I want to thank everyone that I’ve met, both fans and business related through Amon Amarth, it’s been my pleasure. It’s been a long sweet ride but now it’s time for something new.

RLRRLRLL
/Fredrik

There’s no telling what the tipping point was that initiated the split, but both parties seem to be dead set on moving forward with their respective projects.