ICED EARTH mainman/guitarist Jon Schaffer has issued
the following statement:

"Hello, dear friends!

"Once again the winds of change are upon us, and this
time I can say that I am very happy about the result.

"While out on the European tour I had several in depth
discussions with many loyal ICED EARTH fans. A common
theme of these discussions was how much Matt is
missed. I agreed with the fans that things were not
the same and that it was a very special period in ICED
EARTH's history.

"When I heard several months ago that Matt [Barlow]
was going to be doing a project in music again, I was
thinking about contacting him and seeing what his
intentions were. I didn't act on this because I was so
focused on the writing of the new epic, and frankly,
it just didn't seem realistic.

"Well, after getting out on the road and speaking with
many of you directly, I decided to call Matt and see
how he was doing and if he was interested in working
together again. I am proud to say that he is coming
back to ICED EARTH and we will be getting back to work
in the studio very soon.

"Matt will be singing on Part 2 of the 'Something
Wicked' concept CD and we will be looking forward to
getting out on tour and delivering a series of ICED
EARTH shows that will rival any in the history of the
band. And there will be a proper DVD filmed from this
period, something we’ve all been waiting for.

"I want you all to know that it was you who made this
a reality. I have missed Matt's presence onstage and
in my personal life in a big way over the past few
years, so I appreciate your honesty in our
discussions. It did help me realize the decision to
move forward with pursuing this. The fans have spoken
and we have delivered!

"You true fans know that I'm a straight shooter, I say
what I mean and mean what I say. And though I value
your opinions greatly, you must believe that this is a
decision that comes completely from the heart and is
not motivated by anything other than what feels the
best for ICED EARTH. This is the way that things have
always been dealt with, for better or for worse, but
always honestly and from the heart.

"Tim Owens is a great and talented singer and I wish
the best for him and his future on a personal and
professional level.

"There will be more news soon as to further
developments and plans. This will push back the
release of Part 2 a bit. Not because we couldn't be
ready to record in time, but because of a new addition
to Matt's family in early 2008!

"I am very happy to announce that ICED EARTH is truly
BACK!"




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