American metalcore band As I Lay Dying now has only two members after guitarist Ken Susi, drummer Nick Pierce, and bassist/singer Ryan Neff announced their departures. As of now, the band consists solely of vocalist Tim Lambesis and rhythm guitarist Phil Sgrosso.
Lambesis was sentenced to six years in prison in 2014 for hiring a hitman to kill his wife. He was convicted of soliciting the murder of Meggan Lambesis in early 2013, shortly after she filed for divorce in September 2012. The hitman he hired was actually an undercover police officer.
Initially, Lambesis pleaded not guilty to the charges but changed his plea three months later as the trial neared. Meggan Lambesis subsequently filed a $2 million lawsuit against him.
Lambesis rejoined the band in 2018. Susi, Pierce, and Neff joined the band in 2022 and later announced their exits via social media.
Susi shared the news on Instagram on October 24, stating that his “personal morals” had been tested within the band, leading to his decision to leave. He wrote, “My time playing with As I Lay Dying has come to an end today,” expressing “so much gratitude” for the support he received throughout his career.
He acknowledged having “full knowledge” of the band’s “heightened dramatic history” before joining but felt a “drive” to create “great music with great friends.” Susi continued, “Unfortunately, my personal morals have recently been tested to a breaking point, and it’s now the saddest ending to what could have been the greatest second chance for this band.”
He also commented on Neff’s decision to leave, saying, “Ryan Neff is receiving a lot of backlash for stepping down first, and I regret not sharing this decision sooner and standing confidently with my friend—he’s a flawless musician and an even better person. I’ll miss you all on this stage, and I look forward to seeing you on the next one. Anyone looking for a guitar player? My resume is ready.”
Neff announced his departure on October 19, stating, “As of today, I have made the decision to leave As I Lay Dying. This choice comes after much reflection, and I believe it is the right step for my personal and professional journey. I am grateful for the experiences and connections I’ve made during my time with the band. Thank you to all the fans for your support.”
In his statement, Pierce expressed the need to leave the band to maintain his “personal health and integrity.” He wrote, “As of now, I am no longer playing drums for As I Lay Dying. This is far from being the ending I anticipated, and I feel I need to distance myself from the band in an effort to retain my personal health and integrity.”
Pierce expressed his “deepest gratitude” to those who supported him, stating his goal is to create “unforgettable memories” with friends and write music that resonates with fans. He added, “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished on the road touring, as well as writing and recording drums for the new album.” He concluded by sharing his excitement for the future: “My touring and session schedule is now actively open for new opportunities.”
As I Lay Dying’s upcoming album, Through Storms Ahead, is scheduled for release on Friday, November 15.
Related Topics
- David Lee Roth Requested Fewer Guitar Solos from Eddie Amid Jealousy, Reveals Alex Van Halen
- Bob Daisley Reflects on Randy Rhoads’ Near Miss with Ozzy Osbourne’s Band
- PRS Guitars Unveils Limited Edition CE 24-08 Models Featuring Unique Body Woods
