The NWOBHM band PRAYING MANTIS are scheduled to perform at Ipswich Railway on August 3 and at the Cambridge Rock Festival on August 4. Today, it was announced that PRAYING MANTIS have fired vocalist Mike Freeland and drummer Gary Mackenzie.
Freeland issued the following statement: “It is with great sadness that I have to tell you all that I am no longer a member of PRAYING MANTIS. Please know that this was not my decision. On a more positive note, I’ve had the most incredible seven years; I have been to some truly amazing places and met some fantastic people — you guys. I can’t thank you all enough for your support and for the great times. Keep the faith!”
Former sticksman Gary Mackenzie adds: “Following on from Mike Freeland’s post, which some of you may have seen, I am very sad to report that I am also on the list of ex-PRAYING MANTIS members. This was not of my choosing. I will miss many aspects of being in the band, but one of the things I’m most sad about is the fact that I won’t get to say goodbye in person to the many, many terrific fans I’ve met around the world — so many of you have shown such amazing support, enthusiasm, commitment and affection for the band and for me, and I am truly grateful to have met and played for you all. Stay lucky, and keep the faith.”
PRAYING MANTIS’ latest album, Sanctuary was released in Europe in June 2009 via Frontiers Records (July 2009 in the U.S.). The CD was recorded in Atlanta, Georgia under the direction of producer/engineer Andy Reilly (THE CULT, BRUCE DICKINSON).