Finnish melodic death metal band Insomnium have announced that two guest drummers will step in for their upcoming concerts while longtime drummer Markus Hirvonen takes a temporary break from touring for the birth of his first child.
According to a statement shared by the band on November 6, Atte Pesonen of Omnium Gatherum will handle the remaining shows in Finland, while Waltteri Väyrynen of Opeth will take over behind the kit for the upcoming North American tour.
Insomnium welcome Atte Pesonen and Waltteri Väyrynen
Hirvonen announced the temporary lineup changes in a personal message written from a maternity ward in Joensuu, Finland, where he is preparing to welcome his first child.
“As our firstborn is about to enter this world I’m stepping aside from the drum duties of our magnificent band,” the drummer explained.
He continued: “I’m honored and thrilled to be passing the torch first to Atte (Omnium Gatherum) for the few remaining Finnish shows and Waltteri (Opeth) for the upcoming North American run.”
Hirvonen also expressed his gratitude to the two musicians for agreeing to help the band fulfill its live commitments, adding: “There are simply no better drummers nor nicer guys in the world than Atte and Waltteri!”
North American tour to feature Opeth drummer
Väyrynen, who joined Opeth in 2022, is known for his technical precision and experience across extreme and progressive metal. His involvement will allow Insomnium to continue their North American dates without their regular drummer.
Pesonen, meanwhile, is a familiar figure in the Finnish melodic death metal scene through his work with Omnium Gatherum. He will fill in for the final concerts on the band’s current Finnish schedule.
The announcement makes clear that both arrangements are temporary. Hirvonen has not announced a permanent departure from Insomnium; he is stepping away from live duties to spend time with his growing family.
The band has not announced any cancellations or changes to the tour schedule in connection with the drummer substitutions.
