Louder Than The Music

British band The Steels have announced the departure of founding member Simon Napper. The bass player will leave following the band's gig at Camelot Theme Park, Lancashire on 25th June 2011, but The Steels will continue with new bass player Matthew Browell and touring keyboardist and guitarist Gav Richards, formerly of British band Yfriday.

Said Simon, "At age twelve I started the band 'Steel Machine', more recently called 'The Steels'; my aim: to simply enjoy playing music with others and glorify God through my passion of music. 11 years on I feel that this chapter of my life is closing and a new one beginning. It has been an amazing adventure; I estimate we have played at 300+ events throughout the UK, Europe, and as far as America and China; we have produced 3 studio albums, signed to Kingsway and worked for justice alongside International China Concern. I have seen God move powerfully and many people engage, meet, and make decisions for him - that is what it's all about! I would like to thank Adam and Matthew, my family, friends - you know who you are, and all the people I have met along the way - it's been a privilege to meet you all and serve God in this way."

Remaining band members Adam and Matt said "We wish Simon all the best for the future. Thank you for a great 11 years, it has been an incredible journey and we're going to miss you a lot. It has been a hard decision regarding our next step, but after much prayer and consideration, we know we're not finished. It is now the start of a new chapter and we would love you to be a part of it. We are excited to have two great musicians, in Matthew and Gav, joining us. There are new songs, there's a fresh sound and there's a passion for God that we can't wait to share with you."