PARADISE LOST have been forced to withdraw from Spain's Atarfe Vega Rock festival, set to take place February 25-26 at Nave Medina Elvira in Atarfe, Granada. A statement on the group's official web site reads as follows:

"Sadly, late last week Greg [Mackintosh, guitar] was rushed into hospital with a ruptured appendix. He had an emergency operation, and is currently in hospital resting. Normally this would be a straightforward procedure, but they since found he is suffering from peritonitis and is in a great deal of pain.

"We apologise to any fans who bought tickets hoping to see the band, and we wish Greg a speedy recovery."

PARADISE LOST's new self-titled album (view cover here) — named in celebration of the group's 10th studio album since their full-length debut, "Lost Paradise", was released in 1990 — was recorded primarily at Chapel Studios in Lincolnshire, England under the guidance of producer Rhys Fulber (FEAR FACTORY, FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY). The follow-up to 2002's "Symbol of Life" is the group's first CD to feature drummer Jeff Singer (ex-BLAZE).

"Paradise Lost" is scheduled for release on February 28 through G.U.N. Records.