Dave Baksh, guitarist with Sum 41, has left the Canadian punks. He intends to concentrate on his other band, Brown Brigade. They’re said to have a more classic metal approach.

Opeth have a new drummer. He’s Martin Axenrot, who takes over from Martin Lopez. The latter has decided to leave the Swedish band, because of ongoing health problems.

No Doubt have begun work on their new album. Members Tony Kanal, Tom Durmont and Adrian Young are currently working on demos without the presence of singer Gwen Stefani because she is the late stages of her pregnancy.The album with be the first new material from the band since 2001’s ‘Rock Steady’.

The Damned are to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the release of their debut album ‘Damned Damned Damned’ by performing the record in its entirety at London’s 100 Club on July 6. Joining original members Brian James (guitar) and Rat Scabies (drums) will be none other than Amen frontman Casey Chaos.

Megaforce has set an August 8 release date for the two-disc DVD from the legendary San Francisco Bay Area thrash metal band Vio-Lence, entitled “Blood and Dirt“. The DVD is produced and directed by Jerry Allen of Metallian Productions.

Guns n’ Roses have confirmed that their new guitarist is Ron Thal, formerly with New York band Bumblefoot. He’s replaced Buckethead.

Frontiers Records has announced the European release of Shark Island‘s highly anticipated new album, “Gathering of the Faithful”, on July 7.

Leaf Hound are to headline The Metal Brew festival at the Mill Hill Rugby Club in London on July 22. Also on the bill are Firestorm, Crowning Glory, Devulfish, Aghast, Godsized, Chordless and None The Less.

Finland’s Nerlich have inked a deal with OSM Records. The band, who were formed in the fall of 2003, play “old-school skull-crushing death metal,” according to a press release. Nerlich have just finished recording their new album, which will be titled “Defabricated Process”. A December 2006 release is expected.

Skindred are to headline this year’s Uxfest, which happens at the Islington Academy and Islington Bar Academy in London on August 6. There will be 21 bands in all, on two stages. Other names confirmed so far are Bring Me The Horizon, Head-On, Biomechanical, Fireapple Red, Engel and PDHM.