Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Photo: Julia Suloinen
As I Lay Dying singer Tim Lambesis releases an official statement about the band’s status
As I Lay Dying has recently undergone some significant changes in its line-up, with all members except founder Tim Lambesis leaving the band. The events have also led to the cancellation of the band’s European tour planned for the end of the year.
The mass exodus of Lambesis’ bandmates began on 18 October when bassist-vocalist Ryan Neff announced his departure. He was followed the following week by guitarist Ken Susi and drummer Nick Pierce. The last to leave the band was long-time guitarist-vocalist Phil Sgrosso at the end of October.
The statements released by the departing members refer to the unhealthy atmosphere in the band. Ken Susi said at the time of his departure that his personal values had been tested to the limit. Phil Sgrosso stressed that the band no longer provided a healthy or safe environment for anyone, whether it was for creative work, personal relationships or professional activities.
In 2013, Tim Lambesis was sentenced to prison after trying to hire an assassin to kill his then wife. He was released on parole after about two years in prison. The band returned to activity in 2018 after therapy sessions, but in 2022 three long-time members left the band.
Amid recent events, the band’s upcoming album “Through Storms Ahead” is due for release on 15 November. However, Lambesis has now commented on the events on his Instagram account and admits the atmosphere in the band was unhealthy. Lambesis promises to put together a new, more positive line-up and that the band’s upcoming album will be released on time.
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. Lambesis explains on his Instagram.