THE LAST few months have seen some unexpected changes for British rock band Iona. Drummer Terl Bryant left the Celtic combo in June and has been replaced by Dutch drummer/violinist Frank van Essen. Terl says of his surprise departure: "lt is with much prayer and careful thought that I feel it is the right time for me to leave the band. I have been thinking about it for some time, weighing the decision against genuine enthusiasm about the future of the band. The decision comes from a place of peace and I feel it was prompted in me through prayer."

Saxophonist Mike Haughton left in October to concentrate on his commitments with Cliff Richard's band and will not be replaced, Iona's Dave Bainbridge commented: "We feel the new line up will give more space to Troy and Dave and also Frank, who, as well as being an excellent drummer and percussionist, is also a great violinist and good singer." Iona will be performing with the All Souls Orchestra at the London Festival Hall on May 29, playing new full band/orchestral versions of many of their older tunes, which will be recorded for future release. A UK tour is being planned for October and November 1999 to coincide with the release of the next studio album. Joanne's as yet untitled solo album is due for release early in 1999.