Longtime and legendary vocalist Fabio Lione (Angra/Vision Divine) announced his departure from Rhapsody of Fire. Lione joined the band in 1995 just after the "Eternal Glory" demo and before the release of the debut album "Legendary Tales." He leaves behind a legacy of 11 full length studio albums with the band.

In a post on Facebook, Lione stated:

"Dear all, fans, promoters, colleagues. I anticipated this to all band members in the last 3/4 months and now I sadly announce my final decision to part ways with ROF. Ain't no words to describe what this band represents to me, and I'm proud to have been part of such a big chapter of the power metal bible. It's time for me to write a new chapter of my life, as a musician and as a man. I wish ROF all the best, may their magic go ahead stronger than ever..
Thank you Alex and Holzy, for this 20 years, ..Thanks You Roberto, for your friendship and Alessandro for your sincere attitude and honesty."

One of those new chapters was recently announced - in the form of Eternal Idol, which releases the debut album "The Unrevealed Secret" on December 2nd via Frontiers Records.

No comment has been issued by Rhapsody of Fire as of yet.