It has been a week of ups and downs for Protest the Hero. They scored a Juno award, but also have announced that bassist Arif Mirabdolbaghi is stepping away from the band. His departure comes less than a year after drummer Moe Carlson left PTH.

Mirabdolbaghi has many other endeavors outside the band, and last fall he sat out a tour due to his involvement in a play. During that tour, Cam McLellan filled in on bass, and as this announcement on their Facebook page reveals, he will be stepping in again.

The band's post on Miradolbaghi's exit can be read below:

The cat's out of the bag. Despite what you may of read already, here's the real scoop: Arif has decided that the touring schedule we have signed up for to support Volition is more intense than what he is prepared to commit. He is actively involved with other projects at home and being a full time band member isn't a practical thing. Though he has and will be missed out on the road with his brothers, everything was left on a positive note and we are open to his involvement down the road and only time will see how it all plays out. In the meantime, our longtime friend and tourmate Cam McLellan will be filling in on bass duties for the rest of the cycle. As an amazing musician, co-writer and producer of Volition, he is more than capable to pick off where Riffy left off. Don't fret, Cam's working on his giant happy smile and well placed high kicks during our set!

The departure of Mirabdolbaghi comes on the heels of Protest the Hero winning the Juno award for Best Metal/ Hard Music Album for last year's 'Volition.' Guitarist Luke Hoskin says, "We are thrilled with our recent Juno win! We had incredible company in our category and it could have gone to anyone. We remain proud Canadians even though we are currently touring south of the border. Thanks for all the support!"

Protest the Hero are currently in the midst of a North American tour. The U.S. leg with Battlecross, The Safety Fire, Intervals, and Night Verses wraps up Sunday (April 6), followed by a Canadian run with Intervals and Motorleague.

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