Tim Lambesis to Continue As I Lay Dying After Major Band Departures

Tim Lambesis seems hell-bent on keeping As I Lay Dying alive, despite the complete meltdown the band’s endured recently. Over the past few weeks, total chaos erupted as band members exited left and right without a word from Lambesis—until now. He’s finally made a statement, though it feels as predictable as the drama that led up to it.

By now, anyone remotely plugged into the metal scene has seen the fallout of As I Lay Dying’s latest implosion. It started with Ryan Neff, bassist and clean vocalist, bailing first. Then, in a domino effect, their tour manager Alex Kendrick, guitarist Ken Susi, and drummer Nick Pierce followed suit. And, as if that wasn’t enough, guitarist and longtime member Phil Sgrosso threw in the towel. For days, not a peep from Lambesis—until he decided to clear the air on Instagram.

His statement doesn’t exactly offer clarity, but he hints at friction, particularly with Sgrosso, citing differences on everything from finances to creative vision. According to Lambesis:

“I needed some time to process all that’s gone down recently. The environment was unhealthy, and honestly, I’ve been pretty stubborn about my vision for AILD. Phil and I had some differences, personally, creatively, and financially. It’s sad that things came to this, but I understand the guys’ choices to leave.”

In his words, Lambesis “fully supports” the members’ decisions to leave but plans to rebuild once again, as As I Lay Dying was “founded on persistence.” He’s got a new album, Through Storms Ahead, set for release on November 15 and intends to move forward, creating a more “supportive, positive environment.” It’s almost like he’s set on keeping the brand going, even if he’s got to bring in fresh faces to fill the gaps.

Phil Sgrosso’s take, however, paints a picture of a band too toxic to handle. His Instagram post highlights disturbing behavior patterns that convinced him it was time to get out. Sgrosso didn’t mince words:

“As I Lay Dying no longer offers a healthy or safe environment for anyone involved. I’ve seen enough to realize I can’t, in good conscience, stick around for any more of this. For me, the band has become a burden I no longer wish to carry.”

With 21 years invested in AILD, Sgrosso called the decision gut-wrenching, but necessary. He extended support to Neff, Susi, and Pierce, expressing pride in their shared accomplishments. Yet, the choice to walk away seemed clear.

“As I Lay Dying has been held back by dysfunction for years. It’s no longer my responsibility to bear that weight. Thanks to everyone who’s supported me. I’m looking forward to more positive projects.”

Former members Ken Susi and Nick Pierce shared similar sentiments in their own exits, with Susi mentioning that his “morals had been tested to a breaking point” and Pierce stating he left for the sake of his “personal health and integrity.” With these statements, it’s hard not to wonder what exactly drove everyone to these extremes. Let’s not forget, this is a band led by a guy who once tried to hire a hitman to kill his ex-wife.

For now, As I Lay Dying, which has been effectively reduced to just Tim Lambesis, faces an uncertain future. Yet, Lambesis remains determined to carry on, even if he’s got to drag the name through more band members than Spinal Tap went through drummers. A new lineup might be just around the corner because, let’s face it, there are always musicians eager to join a well-known name, regardless of how tarnished it is.

As for what actually went down behind the scenes, don’t hold your breath for a detailed confession. Unless Netflix swoops in with a documentary deal, the details of As I Lay Dying’s latest collapse may stay buried.

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