Kataklysm Part Ways with Drummer Oli Beaudoin

James Payne will join the Canadian metal outfit in his stead

Photo: olibeaudoin.com

BY Calum SlingerlandPublished Sep 4, 2020

Weeks ahead of releasing new album Unconquered, Kataklysm have parted ways with drummer Oli Beaudoin.

"Kataklysm have officially parted ways with drummer Oli Beaudoin," the Canadian outfit wrote on Facebook in announcing the change. "We would like to thank him for his work on the past four albums and his professionalism on the live stage over the last few years, we wish him all the best with his future endeavours."

In announcing Beaudoin's departure, Kataklysm also revealed that Los Angeles-based drummer James Payne (ex-Hour of Penance, Hiss from the Moat, Vital Remains) would be joining the band behind the kit "for the upcoming Unconquered world campaign and beyond."

"I am thrilled and honored to join Kataklysm and participate in a piece of their amazing legacy!" Payne wrote in an accompanying statement. "I've been a fan of the band since I was in high school, and to think of sharing the stages around the world with them is incredible! I can't wait to start this experience and give the fans all I have behind the drums at every show we'll play and beyond!"

You can watch Payne tear through Unconquered opener "The Killshot" below. The latest from Kataklysm arrives September 25 through Nuclear Blast. Last month, guitarist Jean-François Dagenais tested positive for COVID-19.

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