As I Lay Dying has been rocked by a series of departures, leaving the band’s future uncertain.
Guitarist Phil Sgrosso, a founding member who dedicated 21 years to the group, announced his exit in a heartfelt statement on social media expressing concern for the band’s environment. He cited a desire to distance himself from “negatively affecting patterns” and supported the earlier departures of his bandmates, bassist/vocalist Ryan Neff, guitarist Ken Susi, and drummer Nick Pierce.
Susi, acknowledging his personal morals being “tested to a breaking point,” shared regret for not publicly supporting Neff sooner, who stepped down first. He highlighted disappointment in the unrealized potential for a “second chance” for the band, which had been resurrected following a turbulent period.
Neff, Pierce, and Sgrosso join a list of recent departures, including drummer Jordan Mancino and bassist/vocalist Josh Gilbert, who both left in 2022. The band’s 2018 reunion, marked by the return of vocalist Tim Lambesis following his conviction for a murder-for-hire plot against his wife in 2014, has been plagued by controversy and internal strife.
Despite the turmoil, As I Lay Dying’s eighth studio album, “Through Storms Ahead,” is still slated for a November 15th release via Napalm Records. This release was preceded by the singles “Burden,” “The Cave We Fear To Enter,” and “We Are The Dead,” featuring guest vocals from Alex Terrible of Slaughter to Prevail and Tom Barber of Chelsea Grin and Darko.
The band’s highly anticipated European tour “Through Storms Ahead,” scheduled to start on November 15th, has been indefinitely cancelled, leaving fans disappointed and speculating about the band’s next steps.
Title: The Future of As I Lay Dying: An In-Depth Interview with Music Industry Expert Alex Harper
Date: November 10, 2023
Introduction:
As As I Lay Dying grapples with significant lineup changes and the impending release of their eighth studio album, “Through Storms Ahead,” we sat down with music industry expert Alex Harper to discuss the implications of these departures and the band’s uncertain future.
Q: Phil Sgrosso’s exit came after a series of significant departures. What do you think this means for the remaining members of As I Lay Dying?
Alex Harper: Phil’s departure is quite significant, especially considering that he’s a founding member who dedicated over two decades to the band. It speaks volumes about the internal dynamics and the challenges they’re facing. When foundational members leave, it can create a ripple effect, leading to further instability. The remaining members may need to reassess their direction and vision for the band. This kind of turmoil can lead to a reinvention or, conversely, to disbandment if they’re unable to unify.
Q: The statement from Sgrosso highlighted concerns about the band’s environment and personal morals. How important is band harmony in the music industry?
Alex Harper: Band harmony is crucial in maintaining both creativity and productivity. When members are at odds, it can lead to conflict that stifles artistic expression. In As I Lay Dying’s case, the ongoing departures signal deeper issues that may have affected their collaborative process. For fans, it can also lead to disappointment if the music doesn’t resonate as deeply without that harmony. It’s an essential aspect of not just band dynamics but also brand integrity and reputation in the broader music scene.
Q: Ken Susi expressed disappointment regarding unrealized potential. What opportunities do you think As I Lay Dying may have missed during this turmoil?
Alex Harper: The band seemed poised for a resurgence after reuniting in 2018. But with so many internal troubles, they have likely missed the chance to capitalize on that momentum, especially considering their history. They could have leveraged their experiences to create more profound connections with their fans after overcoming struggles. With their upcoming album still scheduled for release, this is a critical moment for them to redefine their narrative and reconnect with listeners who may feel alienated by the recent changes.
Q: With the cancellation of their European tour, what are the potential implications for the band and their fanbase?
Alex Harper: The cancellation of the “Through Storms Ahead” tour is a huge blow, both financially and reputation-wise. For the band, it offers a chance to regroup but also risks losing momentum with their audience. Fans often feel a personal connection to a band’s live performances, and this absence can foster disappointment and reduce their loyalty. The key will be how they communicate their future plans to the fanbase. If they handle it transparently, they can maintain that connection despite these setbacks.
Q: The album “Through Storms Ahead” is still set for release despite the turmoil. Do you think it has the potential to change the course for the band?
Alex Harper: Absolutely. The album will be a litmus test for As I Lay Dying. If it resonates well with fans and critics, it could signify a new chapter and perhaps even recruit new listeners. However, if the internal conflicts overshadow the album’s release, it may not achieve the impact they hope for. The involvement of guest vocalists like Alex Terrible and Tom Barber can attract attention, but ultimately, the authenticity and quality of the music will be pivotal in determining its success and the band’s future trajectory.
Q: What can other bands facing similar challenges learn from As I Lay Dying’s situation?
Alex Harper: The most critical takeaway is the significance of communication and shared values within a band. Being open about personal struggles and seeking professional help can foster a healthier environment. It’s also vital for bands to be proactive about conflict resolution before it escalates. Fans are often more forgiving if they see genuine effort from their favorite bands to work through their issues. Each challenge can be an opportunity to strengthen connections, both within the band and with their audience.
Conclusion:
As I Lay Dying stands at a crossroads amidst a period of upheaval. The decisions made in the coming weeks will shape not only the band’s future but also their relationship with a dedicated fanbase. The impending release of “Through Storms Ahead” will be critical, and all eyes will be on As I Lay Dying as they navigate this tumultuous chapter in their history.