Slayer dump founding member on Valentine's Day

Metal legends Slayer show that chivalry is well and truly dead as they ditch their drummer on Valentine’s of all days.

Founding member Dave Lombardo (pictured above, far left) has revealed that the thrash outfit forced him out of the band after he raised questions about how their revenue was being directed.

Lombardo said in a statement posted on Facebook: “As of the end of the business day on February 14th, I was notified that I would not be drumming for the tour in Australia. I’m saddened, and to be honest I am shocked by the situation.”

He continued: “Last year, I discovered 90% of Slayer’s tour income was being deducted as expenses including the professional fees paid to management, costing the band millions of dollars and leaving 10% or less to split amongst the four of us.”

“Last Monday, I sat down with Kerry and Tom to rehearse for Australia and to propose a new business model that I felt was the best way forward for Slayer to confidently protect itself so we could do what we do best . . . play for the fans. Kerry made it clear he wasn’t interested in making changes and said if I wanted to argue the point, he would find another drummer. On Thursday, I arrived at rehearsals at 1 pm as scheduled, but Kerry did not show. Rather, at 6:24 pm I received an email from the lawyers saying I was being replaced for the Australian dates.”

This is not the first time Lombardo has parted ways with the group, originally leaving back in 1992 before returning in 2001.

Lombardo signed off his statement by saying: “I remain hopeful that we can resolve our issues. But once again, I sincerely apologize to all of our fans in Australia who spent their money expecting to see the 3 of us original Slayer members. I look forward to seeing you in the future.”