THE BEAST

LAMB OF GOD drummer Chris Adler will sit out the band's upcoming tour dates with SLAYER .

The North American trek, which also features ANTHRAX , TESTAMENT and NAPALM DEATH , is scheduled kick off tonight (Thursday, July 26) at Gilford, New Hampshire's Bank Of New Hampshire Pavilion.

LAMB OF GOD said in a statement: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we regret to inform you that Chris Adler will not be performing on our upcoming North American tour with SLAYER . In his absence, we would like to welcome Art Cruz [ PRONG , WINDS OF PLAGUE ], who will be filling in at the recommendation of Chris . We expect to see Chris returning in the very near future. We will see you all on the road soon."

In addition to LAMB OF GOD , Adler has played drums with a number of metal artists, including MEGADETH , NITRO , BLOTTED SCIENCE and PROTEST THE HERO .

LAMB OF GOD is touring in support of its covers album, "Legion: XX" , which was released under the BURN THE PRIEST banner on May 18 via Nuclear Blast in Europe and Epic Records in the U.S. Via Blabbermouth