King Diamond have confirmed that former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Gus G is permanently replacing Andy LaRocque, taking over both writing and performance duties on the band’s forthcoming trilogy of concept albums. The development is notable because LaRocque had been King Diamond’s lead guitarist since the group began in 1985 and was its only other long-term constant member.

The band said Gus G may continue his Firewind and solo commitments, subject to careful scheduling, and praised LaRocque’s musicianship and legacy. LaRocque spent more than 40 years with the band and appeared on 12 studio albums, while Gus G played with Ozzy Osbourne from 2009 to 2017; LaRocque had discussed the unreleased Saint Lucifer’s Hospital 1920 only a month before the announcement.