In what will come as a surprise to many, Machine Head has just announced the departure of bassist Adam Duce. While exact details are still sparse, the band’s official statement claims the split was “amicable.”

Here is Machine Head’s official statement regarding their split with Duce:

“Machine Head and bassist Adam Duce have parted ways. The split is amicable, and Machine Head would like to wish Adam the best with his current and future endeavors. The band will continue on for the time being as a three-piece and have begun the writing process for their follow-up to 2011’s Unto The Locust. A late 2013 release is projected.”

Granted, prior to the release of 2003’s Through The Ashes Of Empires, Machine Head has had its fair share of lineup changes. However, Duce co-founded the band with frontman Robb Flynn and was one of the only original members till in Machine Head…that is, of course, until now. It’s great to hear, though, that Machine Head are still moving forward with the recording of album #8 and that it could be out as soon as late 2013. As to who will replace Duce on bass, at least onstage, is still unknown.