Three members of San Diego metalcore band As I Lay Dying have recently departed from the group, citing personal moral conflicts amidst the band’s tumultuous history. Guitarist Ken Susi, bassist Ryan Neff, and drummer Nick Pierce have all shared their reasons for leaving, leaving only frontman Tim Lambesis and guitarist Phil Sgrosso remaining in the lineup.
Reasons for Departure
In a statement posted on social media on Oct. 24, Ken Susi expressed that his morals had been pushed to a breaking point during his time with the band. He mentioned, “My personal morals have recently been tested to a breaking point, and it’s not the saddest ending to what could have been the greatest second chance for this band.”
Ryan Neff, in his own statement, announced his departure on Oct. 18, stating that it was the right step for his personal and professional journey. He thanked the fans for their support and reflected on the experiences he had during his time with the band.
Drummer Nick Pierce also cited personal reasons for leaving the band, mentioning that he needed to distance himself from As I Lay Dying to prioritize his personal health and integrity.
Band History and Controversy
Founded in 2000, As I Lay Dying gained recognition as a Grammy-nominated act but faced controversy in 2013 when Tim Lambesis was arrested for attempting to hire a hitman to kill his then-wife. Lambesis pleaded guilty and served two years of a six-year sentence. After his release in 2016, the band reunited in 2018 with a mix of original and new members, but tensions persisted.
Former members Nick Hippa, Jordan Mancino, and Josh Gilbert had previously left in 2020. The recent departures of Susi, Neff, and Pierce have further added to the band’s lineup changes and uncertainties about the future of As I Lay Dying.
Future of As I Lay Dying
As of now, Tim Lambesis has not addressed the recent departures, leaving the future of the band uncertain. Despite the changes, their eighth album, “Through Storms Ahead,” is still scheduled for release on Nov. 15.
FAQs
Q: Why did the members of As I Lay Dying leave the band?
A: The members cited personal reasons and moral conflicts as the primary reasons for their departure.
Q: What is the history of As I Lay Dying?
A: The band was founded in 2000 and faced controversy in 2013 when Tim Lambesis was arrested for attempting to hire a hitman to kill his then-wife.
Q: What is the future of As I Lay Dying?
A: The future of the band remains uncertain following the recent departures of key members, but their upcoming album is still set for release.
Credit: www.billboard.com