In a recent interview, LACUNA COIL singer Cristina Scabbia shared the story of how Italian guitarist and producer Daniele Salomone became the band’s new touring guitarist, replacing Diego Cavallotti. As Scabbia explained (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET), the band had known Salomone for several years. “He came on board a few years ago because he actually helped us during other recordings, setting up guitar tunes and taking care of equipment. So, when we needed help for the tour, we thought of him,” Cristina said.
She continued, explaining that when the band faced a lineup change, Salomone immediately came to mind because of their personal relationship and his impressive skills. “He’s an incredible guitar player, and he knows everything about equipment. He has his own studio and produces other bands, so he knows how to handle things,” Scabbia added.
While Salomone is currently touring with LACUNA COIL in a session-musician role, Scabbia clarified that he has not yet been made an official band member. “He’s not the new guitar player of LACUNA COIL. We need time to see if it’s a good fit. Being part of the family requires more than just playing with us—it’s about whether the lifestyle works for him,” she explained.
Salomone made his live debut with LACUNA COIL on August 4, 2024, at the Rockstadt Extreme Fest in Râșnov, Romania.
In June 2024, the band announced Cavallotti’s departure. Although he joined LACUNA COIL in 2016 as a fill-in following Marco “Maus” Biazzi’s exit, Cavallotti clarified on social media that his decision was not driven by dissatisfaction or a desire for new opportunities.
Cavallotti and Salomone had previously played together in the Italian metal band INVERNO, which released its debut album, Stasis, in December 2023.
LACUNA COIL’s upcoming album, Sleepless Empire, is scheduled for release on February 14, 2025, through Century Media Records. The album was inspired by sessions for Comalies XX (2022), the band’s acclaimed remake of their breakthrough album Comalies. Writing and recording took place in northern Italy, and the album was produced by Marco “Maki” Coti Zelati, with artwork by Italian artist Roberto Toderico. Special guests on the album include Randy Blythe of LAMB OF GOD on “Hosting The Shadow” and Ash Costello of NEW YEARS DAY on “In The Mean Time”.
Additionally, the band has created a unique oracle “game” as part of the Sleepless Empire box set, featuring custom dice, further showcasing their connection to the gaming world.
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