Richard Fortus and Dizzy Reed, two members of the Dead Daisies who also happen to be members of Guns N' Roses, have quit the Daisies to focus on a "momentous project in 2016." With some big GNR shows right around the corner, and some empty slots to fill in the lineup, it's not too hard to connect the dots here.

In a new statement (via Blabbermouth), the Daisies announced that they're starting work on a new album, with former Whitesnake guitarist Doug Aldrich taking Fortus' spot, joining singer John Corabi, guitarist David Lowy, bassist Marco Mendoza and drummer Brian Tichy in the studio.

"Doug was Richard's first pick to replace him," said Lowy. "He's a highly accomplished musician, performer and songwriter and we're really looking forward to Doug joining us as the Dead Daisies adventure rolls on." Aldrich has also worked with Dio, House of Lords, Glenn Hughes and other artists over his long career.

Nobody's confirming whether or not Fortus and Reed's exits have anything to do with Guns N' Roses' upcoming shows in Las Vegas and at Coachella in April, but with only three confirmed members -- original singer Axl Rose, guitarist Slash and bassist Duff McKagan -- on board for the shows so far, speculation is growing as to who will fill in the missing pieces. Fortus and Reed, along with drummer Frank Ferrer and keyboardist Chris Pitman, are current front-runners.

As of now, Guns N' Roses have only a handful of shows scheduled: for April 8 and 9 at the opening weekend of Las Vegas’ new T-Mobile Arena, and then the following weekend in Indio, Calif., for the Coachella music festival. But rumors are also swelling regarding these concerts, with insiders claiming that a full tour -- the first to include Rose, Slash and McKagan onstage together as GNR since the '90s -- is on the way. Fortus and Reed's tease of a "momentous project" sure fits the bill.

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