New Jersey-based progressive thrash metal band DARK EMPIRE has parted ways with vocalist Jens Carlsson (PERSUADER, SAVAGE CIRCUS). Band leader/lead guitarist/death vocalist Matt Moliti commented: "This decision was a long time coming and it was a hard one to make, since Jens is a great dude to work with. With him living in Sweden and the rest of us in the New Jersey, it is impossible to do any kind of gigging, which is something we need to make this band continue. This was a mutual decision and there are no hard feelings at all. We wish Jens the best in his endeavors with PERSUADER and SAVAGE CIRCUS. As for a replacement, since I am already writing new material, we would like to find one as soon as possible. We're most interested in a singer with an abrasive or hard rock quality to their voice, and of course, must be living in or willing to commute or relocate to the northern New Jersey/New York City area. Send any audio or video samples to our MySpace page."

Jens had this to say about the split: "After a long consideration, we in the band made the decision for me to step down as singer for DARK EMPIRE. For Matt and the guys to push the band forward, live appearences are essential and the fact that I live in Sweden was becoming a bigger and bigger problem. I also have PERSUADER and SAVAGE CIRCUS, who need attention as well. There are no hard feelings, but something had to be done about the situation. I wish the guys in DARK EMPIRE all the best, and you fans out there, keep on rocking!"

DARK EMPIRE released its sophomore effort, "Humanity Dethroned", in August 2008 via Killzone Records.

DARK EMPIRE performing live - July 2007: