New Jersey hardcore band Gel has abruptly disbanded during their tour, citing “heinous acts” committed by their former guitarist, Anthony Webster. The announcement came through a statement posted on their now-deactivated social media accounts on Thursday, March 20, just after what would become their final performance in Tokyo.
The statement, issued by vocalist Sami Kaiser, bassist Matthew Bobko, guitarist Madison Nave, and drummer Alex Salter, confirmed that the band would no longer continue due to “irreparable damage” caused by Webster. Expressing the emotional toll of the situation, they made it clear that continuing as a band was no longer an option.
“The reason is pretty simple at its core,” the statement read, per Consequence. “The former guitar player, Anthony Webster, has committed such heinous acts in trying to forward himself in his musical career that he’s done irreparable damage to the band in the process. It has affected us as human beings more than we can even attempt to explain, to the point of being completely unable to do the band anymore.”
The band detailed some of Webster’s alleged misconduct, accusing him of stealing “tens of thousands of dollars” from the group and using the money for personal expenses, including rent, food orders, OnlyFans purchases, and unexplained CashApp transactions. They claimed that Webster left behind a financial trail, making it easy for them to uncover his actions.
Additionally, Webster was accused of posting nude images of band members on Reddit without consent and placing other members in physically dangerous situations multiple times. The band likened their experience to an abusive relationship, explaining that leaving wasn’t easy due to external pressures and obligations. However, they emphasized that they fought to keep the band going until it became impossible to continue.
Formed in 2018 by members of Sick Shit, Gel released several EPs and albums, including their self-titled debut in 2018, Violent Closure (2021), Only Constant (2023), and their latest release, Persona (2024). They had planned tours with Spiritbox, Anxious, and Volbeat, along with performances at both Coachella weekends next month, but all scheduled shows have now been canceled.
In a final message to fans, the band offered their deepest apologies, acknowledging the disappointment their disbandment may cause. “We are so sorry that we have to end it this way and we truly hope for the best for all of you. Thank you so much to the friends we’ve made over the years, and thank you so much to our fans for always being there for us and showing us how much you care. Take care of each other, and love your friends.”
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