Accept Part Ways With Guitarist Herman Frank + Drummer Stefan Schwarzmann

The next time you see Accept, the band will look a little different. The veteran metal act just announced that two-fifths of their lineup has exited the group. Guitarist Herman Frank and drummer Stefan Schwarzmann are leaving to pursue their own band, Panzer.

According to a post on Accept's website, the split is an amicable one with the musicians leaving as "friends" with the blessing of the rest of the group. Schwarzmann first appeared with the band in the '90s as part of their live lineup for the Death Row tour. He rejoined the band in 2005 after their eight-year hiatus. Frank's first appearance with Accept also came in the '80s for a stint between 1982-1983. He also rejoined the band in 2005 after their hiatus.

The band's statement on the exit of their two members can be read below:

WE ARE PARTING AS FRIENDS!
ACCEPT would like to thank Herman Frank & Stefan Schwarzmann for being with us these last 4 + years, for making themselves available whenever needed and for rocking their asses off! We and the fans all knew that they had their own careers and that eventually we would run into scheduling and other conflicts beyond our control. Herman and Stefan are now ready to take on the world, with their own band “PANZER”, a Nuclear Blast Record deal under their belts and a new album!
We are parting as friends and wish them nothing but success!
We ourselves are getting ready for 2015 – another year of heavy touring! We would like to say thanks again to our fans around the world for their huge support and for the fantastic year 2014!
The Blind Rage World Tour continues in 2015!

As stated, the band will continue without Frank and Schwarzmann, with dates for their world tour kicking off April 26 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. At present, the band has shows booked into August. They'll be supporting the 'Blind Rage' album, which was released back in August. The disc features both Frank and Schwarzmann's playing.

At present, it has not been revealed who will be taking over for the two exiting members, but with touring not set to start until late April, the band has time to fill the void. Check out their tour schedule here.