Two members of thrash metal band Megadeth quit

TORONTO — Two members of Megadeth — including its Canadian drummer — quit the popular thrash metal band on Tuesday.

Within hours of each other, drummer Shawn Drover and guitarist Chris Broderick announced they are walking away from the group.

In a statement posted online, Drover explained: “After 10 years, I have decided to quit Megadeth to pursue my own musical interests. I want to thank Dave Mustaine and the entire Megadeth family, as well as thanking all the amazing Megadeth fans around the world!!! I truly appreciate all of you. Stay tuned for info on my next musical journey.”

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Drover, 48, is a native of Montreal.

A statement from Broderick, 44, read: “Due to artistic and musical differences, it is with great reluctance that I announce my departure from Megadeth to pursue my own musical direction. I want all of you to know how much I appreciate the amount that you the fans have accepted and respected me as a member of Megadeth for the last seven years, but it is time for me to move on. I wish Dave and everyone in Megadeth all the best. I am working on a few things of my own and hope that when they come out, you will all dig it.”

Megadeth was formed in 1983 by former Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine and bassist Dave Ellefson. Both left the band in 2002 but returned in 2004 and 2010 respectively.

At least a dozen musicians have come and gone from the group in the last three decades.

Drover joined the group in 2004 and Broderick joined in 2008.

Megadeth’s most recent album is last year’s Super Collider.