Japanese rockers Anthem have postponed their upcoming tour after their bassist Naoto Shibata was diagnosed with stomach cancer.

The heavy metal band from Tokyo was due to kick off its Burning Oath Live Circus trek on 9 February (13) before wrapping up on the 16 March (13), but the rockers have axed all of their dates to allow the 54 year old to make a full recovery.

The trio will make its big return to the stage at the first annual Ozzfest Japan in May (11-12May13), according to Blabbermouth.net.