Ill Nino Unveil Three New Members + First Song in Five Years

UPDATE: Vocalist Cristian Machado, lead guitarist Ahrue Luster and rhythm guitarist Diego Verduzco, the Ill Nino members who were replaced with the musicians listed below, are disputing ownership over the name. Machado released the following statement to Blabbermouth:

"To all our family, friends, and fans, contrary to what you may have heard, Ahrue, Diego and I have NOT left ILL NIÑO and remain very dedicated to the band and all our fans. We're excited to be working on new music, partnerships, and opportunities. We will have more info for you all soon."

Blabbermouth also reports that the ousted trio filed a U.S. trademark application on Nov. 16, 2018 for the Ill Nino name. It has been suggested that drummer Dave Chavarri has attempted to claim sole ownership over the band's name.

Latin metal group Ill Nino look a lot different than they did five years ago after issuing their seventh record, Till Death, La Familia, and have unveiled their brand new lineup to coincide with the release of the new song "Sangre."

Joining the band are Marcos Leal (vocals, Shattered Sun), Sal Dominguez (rhythm guitar, ex-Upon a Burning Body) and Jess Dehoyos (lead guitar, Sons of Texas) while percussionist Daniel Couto has returned following his split in 2013.

While news about an eighth record has yet to come, fans can whet their appetite with the concussive new track. It's textbook Ill Nino with floor-scraping, start-stop guitars and tribal beats to fuel their signature brand of heavy metal. Marcos Leal lays it all out, showcasing his versatile range from throaty screams to anthemic cleans with his mid-range snarl presenting a balance between the warring techniques.

Founder and drummer Dave Chavarri commented, "Sometimes being in a band is like being married - sometimes people grow apart and no longer see eye to eye, and a separation becomes inevitable. We wish our former members the best in their musical careers, and are pumped to move forward with our new band members. Not only have we toured with them, but they're very respected, seasoned musicians, and dudes that have always been our 'Familia' since day one."

"Anyone who knows me knows the love I have for this band," added Leal. "I got my start singing Ill Nino covers in my younger years and this band has always held a special place in my heart. When the opportunity arose to front one of my favorite bands of all time, it was something I needed to consider."

Two international tours are currently in the works and the band is expected to announce their new label home sometime soon.

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