"Chris knows why he is no longer a part of Slipknot."

Slipknot have announced the departure of percussionist Chris Fehn, after he reportedly began suing the rest of the group while still an active member.

According to a report by The Blast, Fehn is taking his now former bandmates to court over a pay dispute. Fehn was allegedly under the impression that the band’s money made from touring and merchandise is handled by one sole company that splits profits and pays the bands.

The reports say that Fehn recently discovered that his bandmates have set up several other Slipknot affiliated business entities in different states that he was unaware of.

As the legal battle continues to escalate, Slipknot has now confirmed that Fehn won’t be performing with the band anymore.

“Slipknot’s focus is on making album #6, and our upcoming shows around the world, our best ever,” the band confirmed on their website.

“Chris knows why he is no longer a part of Slipknot. We are disappointed that he chose to point fingers and manufacture claims, rather than doing what was necessary to continue to be a part of Slipknot. We would have preferred he not take the path that he has, but evolution in all things is a necessary part of this life. Long Live The Knot.”

This comes after frontman Corey Taylor appeared to respond via Twitter, saying: “You’re gonna read a lot of bullshit today. This is all I’ll say. JUST YOU WAIT TIL THE TRUTH COMES OUT. Long Live The Knot.”

News of the lawsuit comes just days after Slipknot confirmed the release date of their hotly-anticipated new album, while also announcing details of the ‘KNOTFEST ROADSHOW’ tour which will hit North America this summer.

Volbeat, Gojira, and Behemoth have all been confirmed as the special guests on the 29-date tour, which will take place between July and September.

It's a shame when music becomes part of a business and all sorts of legal proceedings
I've been cool for a long time, but I’ll probably listen to the new album