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Araya's back surgery waylays Slayer tour

Just one day before releasing its new studio album, "World Painted Blood," Slayer has postponed its upcoming Canadian Carnage tour with Megadeth so that frontman Tom Araya can undergo surgery.

According to a press release from the group, Araya is "currently under the care of a specialist for a back injury, thought to be related to his on-stage activity, and the physician has ordered an immediate surgical procedure to take place in Texas tomorrow (11/3) morning."

In addition to forcing the postponement of the group's Canadian roadtrip with Megadeth--which was due to kick off next Sunday (11/8)--Araya's injury has also forced the group to pull out of a scheduled Wednesday (11/4) appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live."

Word of Araya's health setback comes on the eve of tomorrow's release of "World Painted Blood," Slayer's first new studio set since 2006's "Christ Illusion."

"What is foremost in our minds right now is that Tom do whatever he needs to to get this taken care of," Slayer guitarist Kerry King said in a prepared statement. "While all four of us are disappointed that we won't be able to see through all of our commitments set for the next few weeks, the most important thing is Tom's health. We thank the fans in Canada and here in LA, the Megadeth camp, and everyone associated with 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' for their understanding. We look forward to seeing you all soon."

Despite Araya's status, King--along with fellow Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman and drummer Dave Lombardo--will forge ahead with plans for a previously announced in-store appearance set to take place Wednesday (11/4) at the Hot Topic store located at the Hollywood and Highland complex in Hollywood, CA.