Bon Jovi Reportedly Hires New Guitarist

While many continue lamenting the departure of Richie Sambora from Bon Jovi, the band has apparently quietly made a switch in their touring lineup. There is a report that they have hired Matt O'Ree as their rhythm guitarist. Phil X will remain the lead guitarist.

Jersey Shore radio station WRAT wrote on their Facebook page, "The Rat wants to send out a hearty congrats to our local guitar hero Matt O'Ree. Matt has been signed on as the new guitar player for Bon Jovi as they tour Europe and other far lands. Congrats Matt! You deserve it big time! Couldn't have happened to a nicer or more deserving guy. It helps that Matt can play his ass off!"

In the comments, WRAT said that he's replacing Bobby Bandiera, who has been their rhythm guitarist since 2005. Bandiera spent 20 years as a guitarist with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, and, in the early '80s, frequently played the Stone Pony in Asbury Park on nights when Bruce Springsteen would sit in with his band.

Based in Holmdel, N.J., O'Ree, according to his website, is a veteran of the New Jersey music scene who has been playing guitar since he was 13. In addition to opening up for many national acts, he's released three studio records since 1998's 88 Miles, with the most recent, 2005's Shelf Life, winning four Asbury Park Music Awards. O'Ree also has two live albums.

There has been no official statement from Bon Jovi on the matter as of now. Earlier today (Sept. 8), it was learned that their tour of China was canceled under mysterious circumstances.

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