In a shocking turn of events, Phil Sgrosso, the longtime guitarist of metalcore band As I Lay Dying, has announced his departure from the group. This news comes just a week after three other members abruptly left the band, citing a "difficult and serious situation."
Sgrosso, who had been with As I Lay Dying since 2003, shared his decision on social media, explaining that recent events had led him to conclude that the band "no longer offers a healthy or safe environment for anyone involved." He expressed concern about "patterns of behavior" that he felt he could no longer support or enable.
The guitarist's departure follows the exit of Ken Susi, Nick Pierce, and Ryan Neff, who collectively quit the band last week. Their decision led to the cancellation of As I Lay Dying's planned European tour.
The recent upheaval comes at a critical time for the band, which is set to release a new album, "Through Storms Ahead," in just two weeks. The remaining members have acknowledged the situation, stating they are "still sorting through details" and promising to provide more information soon.
As I Lay Dying has faced controversy in the past, particularly surrounding lead singer Tim Lambesis, who served nearly three years in prison after pleading guilty to soliciting an undercover police officer to murder his then-wife.
Sgrosso expressed his support for his former bandmates who left earlier, and reflected on his 21-year tenure with As I Lay Dying. He described the band as his "life's work" and expressed regret at leaving, but felt it was necessary given the circumstances.
The guitarist also alluded to past issues within the band, mentioning "dysfunction" that has held the group back and suggesting that others had been "forced out" in the past.
As the situation continues to unfold, fans and industry observers are left wondering about the future of As I Lay Dying and what these departures might mean for the upcoming album release.