Gorguts Add Drummer Michel Bélanger to Their Lineup Following Patrice Hamelin’s Exit

Things are once again looking up for Canadian tech death band Gorguts, as they’re now operating at full capacity with the addition of drummer Michel Bélanger. The news broke yesterday on the band’s official Facebook page yesterday afternoon.

Bélanger’s resume is a pretty impressive one, having played with The Flaying, Deviant Process, Rotting Inside, Beyond Creation, and others. Just watching the clips below can give you an idea of the dude’s capabilities behind the kit.

Bélanger will be replacing his predecessor Patrice Hamelin, who Gorguts mastermind Luc Lemay announced was stepping away from the band for personal reasons.

In his announcement, Lemay praised Bélanger, saying he was excited to have him join the band after having already known the drummer for years.

“Hi everyone,

I’m writing today to announce that drummer Michel Bélanger – Drummer will be joining Gorguts, as Patrice Hamelin has left the band for personal reasons and to focus on his business.

We want to wish Patrice all the best and we want to thank him for all these years for sharing the stage together!

We love you man!!!!!

I’ve met Michel a few years ago having played two shows with Deviant Process from Québec city. His talent struck me right away! He’s a very skilled, talented, focused and devoted musician.

We can’t wait to hit the stage at Maryland Death Fest next spring with Michel!

Horns up everyone!!!!!” – Luc“

This news comes nearly two months after news broke that Gorguts was working on their sixth studio album, with their last full-length release being 2013’s Colored Sands.

With a drummer now in tow, Lemay said the band will be ready and raring to go when they head out to play the 2024 edition of Maryland Deathfest next May in Baltimore.