Slipknot: Drummer Jay Weinberg leaves heavy metal group

Heavy metal band Slipknot have announced that their drummer Jay Weinberg has left.

A statement on the US group's website states that it was a "creative decision" for them to "part ways".

The 33-year-old joined the band in 2014 after the departure of original drummer and #1 member Joey Jordison.

Slipknot thanked Jay for "his dedication and passion" over the past 10 years but said they were "intent on evolving".

The band shot to fame after their formation in 1995, thanks to their aggressive style and the horror masks they wear when performing.

Their self-titled debut album, released in 1999, was a smash hit and they've gone on to sell millions of albums since and won a Grammy award.

They remain popular with metal fans and were seen performing at Download festival in Leicestershire earlier this year.

Original drummer Joey Jordison, who died at the age of 46 in 2021 eight years after leaving the band, helped to create its signature sound.

Fans have been reacting to the news on social media, with some comments describing Jay as "arguably the best drummer in the world".

Another wrote it was "the worst decision Slipknot have ever made", with some questioning why the band keeps losing members, referencing the departure of keyboardist Craig Jones earlier this year.

The band, which had nine members, has changed line-ups a number of times since it was founded.

BBC Newsbeat has contacted Slipknot and Jay for further comment but not yet heard back.

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