SEPULTURA has announced the addition of drummer Eloy Casagrande, replacing Jean Dolabella as the band's full-time percussionist.

The 20-year-old drum prodigy from Sao Paulo, Brazil, who won the Modern Drummer Undiscovered Drummer Contest as a teenager in 2006, is more than eager to begin his career with the veteran metal icon.

"When I got the invitation to join Sepultura, I was in shock," said Casagrande. "I'm a fan of the band for years; it'll be an honor to play with them."

Commented guitarist, Andreas Kisser: "I'm sure Eloy will do a great job with Sepultura. He's already a musician who shows a lot of strength and technique, although he's young. We did a rehearsal with him and it was fantastic; he played the old and new material as if he was in the band for a long time. Sepultura will show the world another Brazilian talent on the drums."

Dolabella, who leaves Sepultura after a five-year run of relentless touring and two studio albums, will depart to focus on personal projects.

"The period we spent with Jean in the band was very positive," added Kisser. "We've recorded two great albums together and did a lot of concerts which will be in Sepultura's history. We only have reasons to thank him for his contribution and energy all these years."

Sepultura is currently home in Brazil preparing for a European run with EXODUS and DESTRUCTION, which will kick off later this month. The band is touring in support of its 12th studio album, and Nuclear Blast Records debut, Kairos, which hit stores in July.

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