Folk metallers Eluveitie announced today that they have sadly had to part ways with multi-instumentalist Patrick ‘Päde’ Kistler.

Kistler, who played the bagpipes and whistles for the band, has parted ways under private circumstances. He was first absent at the London show that The Metalist attended, where the band commented that he had to leave the tour under emergency circumstances but again now elaboration was made as to why.

The band have found a replacement to fill Kistler’s shoes temporarily to complete their current European tour. He has been named as Matteo Sisti from fellow Italian folk metallers Krampus, and the band commented on his additions to the ranks:

“We can announce that we have already found a very talented musician to step in and keep the show going: multi-instrumentalist Matteo Sisti, from our friends and colleagues at Krampus, has not hesitated to jump in and learn our full set in just a few days. A big THANK YOU goes out to Matteo and Krampus at this point – in the midst of the European leg of our Origins World Tour, their support is much appreciated. Matteo is joining us as a temporary session musician for the remainder of this tour. We can’t wait to rock the stages together for you!”

Sad that Patrick has had to part ways with Eluveitie, but it is quite amazing that they managed to find someone to replace him so quickly. We can imagine that metal bagpipe players are few and far between. The band posted the picture below on their Facebook to show the departing and incoming members.