Emil Werstler joined Chimaira in 2011 on bass, took over lead guitar duties a year later, and now, just three years later, he’s leaving the band. Said Werstler, in an official statement:

“My time in CHIMAIRA has, unfortunately, come to an end. It is time for me to move on as I continue to focus on harvesting my abilities as a musician.

“I’m very fond of everyone in the band and wish them all the best in the future.

“Although this was a difficult choice to make, I feel it was necessary in order to take the next step in my career. The best is still yet to come and I’m very excited for the multiple projects I am working on.

“I would like to thank the band, management, and, most importantly, all the fans for the endless support and understanding.”

Westler, an accomplished guitar player known for his Levi / Werstler project and Daath, appeared on Chimaira’s latest album, Crown of Phantoms, and played a solo on “Samsara,” from the 2011 album, The Age of Hell.

The video for “Wrapped In Violence,” below, came out earlier this year.

(via Blabbermouth)

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNelTL6QpvI[/youtube]