Just weeks after he quit Evile, guitarist Ol Drake has bounced back with a multi-album, worldwide recording deal.

The Huddersfield rocker shocked the metal world in August when he decided to walk away from the internationally successful group.

The four-piece thrash outfit had become Huddersfield’s greatest rock export, having risen to worldwide fame and played many of the globe’s biggest festivals and venues.

But Drake said the gruelling touring schedule had led him to call it a day.

Having got himself a full-time day job, he has now announced his return as a recording artist.

The new deal will see him release his debut solo album on Earache Records under the project name of Old Rake.

The album, to be revealed next year, is set to include a number of guest musicians.

And while Ol has vowed not to tour, he exclusively told WoW that he hoped he could host some hometown gigs and guitar clinics sometime in 2014.

He said: “I’m very excited to announce signing a solo deal with Earache Records.

“I established a great friendship with the guys at Earache over the years while I was with Evile and I was happy to hear they wanted to work with me in a solo capacity.

“I've always been inspired by Steve Vai, and I've always wanted to do something in a similar approach orientated around metal with injections of other styles and ideas which interest me.

“After recently seeing the film 'Not Dead Yet' about the amazing and inspiring genius, Jason Becker, it really kicked me into gear to do something with my playing.

“Music is all I can really do, so I'm thankful for the opportunity and ability to still create music for people to hear.

“I’m looking forward to getting the music out there!"

Evile are expected to announce who will replace Ol as lead guitarist early in 2014.

They have released four albums between 2006 and 2013 with Earache Records; Enter the Grave, Infected Nations, Five Serpent's Teeth and Skull.

The timing of Ol’s departure means the new lead guitarist will have input on their next album.

And while Ol remains friends with the remaining members, he has confirmed he is having no input on who they pick as their next guitarist.

The group has received hundreds of applications for lead guitarist and auditions for shortlisted candidates are set to take place in the new year.