2011 has been a tough year for Coheed And Cambria. Four months after parting ways with bassist Mic Todd (following his now infamous arrest), drummer Chris Pennie has announced his departure from the band.

Pennie, who was also previously in The Dillinger Escape Plan, has reportedly parted ways with Coheed And Cambria over “creative differences.” According to a press release, the drummer will be shifting focus on his band Return To Earth (who are currently recording their third album for Metal Blade Records) and his production company Fight Mannequins. Pennie had the following to say about exiting the group:

“I am very thankful for the times I shared the stage with the guys in Coheed and especially want to thank the amazing, supportive fans that I’ve met while on tour. There are a lot of exciting projects on the horizon in addition to Return To Earth and Fight Mannequins that I feel require 100 percent of my commitment and attention. I feel that this is the right time to make that happen.”

Coheed And Cambria posted the following about the split via Facebook:

“Tough decisions were made today that will help shape this band for the coming years. We extend our deepest appreciation to Chris Pennie for an incredible journey.”

Pennie had joined Coheed And Cambria in 2007 as a replacement for drummer Josh Eppard, though the only album he recorded with the band was 2010’s Year Of The Black Rainbow. No further details about the band’s future plans, nor about replacements for Pennie and Todd, have been revealed yet.

[via Lambgoat]