The Finnish folk metal ambassadors KORPIKLAANI announce a change in the lineup for the first time since 2005. Hittavainen who's been with band since the beginning will leave the band. There is a mutual understanding between him and the rest of the band and there is no big drama involved. His personal health issues made the constant touring and recording impossible.

The band found Hittavainen's replacement in a young prodigy Teemu Eerola, who's already been rehearsing hard with the band. Teemu has already proven himself to be an excellent replacement and magnificent company.

The first show with the new lineup will be in Rotterdam on September 24. In Finland the revitalized band can be spotted in Pori on October 6 and in Helsinki later in the same month. The real test for Teemu's abilities and endurance will be the 24-date North American tour starting on November 23.