Keyboardist Bobby Williamson of the Texas metal band OUTWORLD has issued the following update:

"Due to overwhelming and stressful tasks that I took on, rehearsal schedule problems, sleep deprivation and damage to my hearing (tinnitus), I have made the decision to leave OUTWORLD. This was a hard decision to make, but I feel it's best for me.

"Rusty Cooley [guitar] and I, the founding members of this band, began OUTWORLD years ago with the vision of putting together an amazing metal band that could measure up with the quality of bands like SYMPHONY X, DREAM THEATER, etc., and I think we conquered that vision to a degree. However, things have changed for me, it became not fun anymore and too hard to persevere with little positive return.

"But I'm not done with music! And I look forward to writing music of my own...not sure which direction I will take yet as far as a project or a band.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of those devoted fans we have gathered over the years that truly believed in us. You helped us win the Famecast video competition, an amazing and gloriful accomplishment that each of us will never forget. Cheers to you! Hopefully OUTWORLD fans will continue to follow each member in OUTWORLD as we take on other endeavors. I feel OUTWORLD will go down as the best metal band that never reached its full potential in the music industry."

OUTWORLD is currently searching for a new label to release its sophomore album. New audio samples are available on the group's MySpace page.

In late 2006, OUTWORLD released its self-titled debut on France's Replica Records to both critical and artist acclaim.

The band has been heralded as a blend of key influences PANTERA, SYMPHONY X, LAMB OF GOD, and DREAM THEATER, but with a sound all its own.