AS I LAY DYING vocalist Tim Lambesis has released a statement on the departures of four of his bandmates: longtime guitarist Phil Sgrosso, drummer Nick Pierce, guitarist Ken Susi and bassist/vocalist Ryan Neff.
Earlier today (Monday, November 4),Lambesis took to his Instagram to write: "Hi everyone, I needed some time to process all that has happened recently with AILD. As I reflect, I certainly agree that there was an unhealthy environment that made leaving for a new tour with the previous lineup unrealistic. It had become difficult to figure out even the smallest details, and I admit I can stick strong to my vision for the future of AILD even when others think it should go another direction.
"It saddens me to think about the behaviors, communication, and patterns of interaction that led up to the tour cancellation. Phil and I no longer saw eye to personally, creatively, or financially. Discussions during this time prompted his decision to depart first, with each of the touring members deciding to leave shortly after, as they were not interested in going on without him. Unfortunately, that wasn't the order in which everything was made public, as some statements were rushed out during a chaotic time in response to rumors.
"I fully support each of the guys' decisions to leave and believe at this time it is best for everyone. With that being said, my door will always remain open to discussing anything directly as I believe closing communication lead to many assumptions and problems of its own.
"Now, regarding what's next: AILD was founded on persistence and determination. For anyone who is familiar with the foundational years from 2000-2004, you know that more than 20 people (whom I'm incredibly grateful for) have come and gone to help bring to life this vision I've had in my head since I was 19 years old. I look forward to building a new team, and creating an atmosphere that is supportive, positive, and fosters a creative environment.
"'Through Storms Ahead' will still be released November 15. I am proud of what we created and look forward to sharing it with all of you."
Sgrosso announced his departure from AS I LAY DYING on October 30. His exit came just six days after Pierce and Susi left the group, and 12 days after Neff said he was also leaving the band.
AS I LAY DYING's European tour, "Through Storms Ahead", which was scheduled to kick off on November 15 in Würzburg, Germany, has now been canceled. TuskaLive and Grey Beard, the promoters of the Helsinki, Finland concert on the trek, which was supposed to take place on November 21 at Kulttuuritalo, wrote in a social media post that "the tour will not be rescheduled."
AS I LAY DYING's eighth full-length studio album, "Through Storms Ahead", will be released on November 15 via Napalm Records. The LP features the tracks "Burden", "The Cave We Fear To Enter", as well as the recently revealed "We Are The Dead" featuring guest vocalists Alex Terrible (SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL) and Tom Barber (CHELSEA GRIN, DARKO).
"Through Storms Ahead" was produced by Sgrosso and Hiram Hernandez, mixed by Aaron Chaparian, mastered Ted Jensen and album art once again created by Corey Meyers.
(Source: www.blabbermouth.net)