in 2009 don clark left the band to pursue his graphic designer career and to be with his family and ethan luck left because he could not keep up with the hectic schedule of being in both demon hunter and relient k. on august 28, demon hunter released an official statement with a new band photograph stating that patrick judge was the new, permanent replacement for luck. however, the statement made no mention of randy torres's joining the band; a new band photograph included him as well. an official replacement for don clark was announced in demon hunter's exclusive fan club, the blessed resistance, with the announcement of ryan helm, formerly of the ascendicate, as the band's new permanent rhythm guitarist.