Vocalist Snowy Shaw (Therion, Dream Evil, King Diamond, Mercyful Fate, Memento Mori, Notre Dame) has quit Swedish progressive/experimental metallers Therion after four years, two studio albums, live DVDs and numerous tours around the world.

Commented Snowy: "I've had a terrific and great time touring and working with Therion and I do wish them nothing but the best in the future, but I've felt for some time that it's time for me to move on. I also wanna take the opportunity to show my gratitude and thank all the loyal fans for their support, love and understanding."

Shaw was forced to sit out this weekend's show with Therion at the Rockharz festival in Germany due to sickness. This would have been Snowy's last appearance with the band.

Snowy has written and co-written songs for the forthcoming Therion album, 'Sitra Ahra', which is scheduled for release in September through Nuclear Blast Records.

Shaw's departure from Therion will not affect the group's upcoming live appearances, as singer Thomas Vikström will handle Snowy's parts at the Rockharz festival and on the upcoming tours in South/Central America, Mexico and Europe with a date in Sofia - Bulgaria - 18 November.

As a graphic designer and artist, Snowy was hired to oversee the visual aspects and help improve Therion's stage act and performance for the 'Gothic Kabbalah' world tour 2007 and the band's 20th-anniversary tour.

Рўangra interview SnowyВ Shaw

photo: Georgi Gerogiev