Longtime bassist Piggy D. announced that he’s officially parted ways with Rob Zombie and co. In the wake of his absence, the original member of the lineup, Rob “Blasko” Nicholson, rejoins the outfit. Blasko left in 2006, with Piggy D. replacing him, when he linked up with Ozzy Osbourne’s ensemble.
Nicholson will continue with Osbourne and Zombie. “After 18 years, I am thrilled to announce that Blasko has returned,” Zombie wrote on his Instagram. “The four-string Zombie monster is back. Get ready for a crazy summer of mayhem.”
The recent departure of Piggy D. came as a surprise to fans. He posted on his Instagram, which is currently private, about his departure. “Dear Friends, my time with Zombie has come to an end. It was an honor to entertain you for the last 18 years. I look forward to the future and wish everyone the best. Peace & Love, Matt Montgomery aka Count D., Piggy D., Giggles”
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Montgomery began playing with Zombie in 2006 and was cemented into the official lineup on their 2007 album, Zombie Live. He has also collaborated with Alice Cooper and Wednesday 13, has done solo work, and currently performs with The Haxans. It’s a side project with New Years Day’s Ash Costello.
While there is no news on his next move, Montgomery is the current host of Gibson TV’s series Metal And Monsters. Fans can watch on YouTube about the crossover between metal and horror culture.
Ahead of this announcement from Montgomery, the Freaks On Parade announced a co-headline U.S. tour featuring Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper. Filter and 80s Legends Ministry join the run as support. Zombie has not released a statement about Montgomery’s exit.
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Blasko was a member from 1998 through 2006. He previously played alongside Danzig and Killing Spree and is in the Black Sabbath tribute band Zakk Sabbath. Fans can read Montogomery’s statement below:
