As I Lay Dying is down to just vocalist Tim Lambesis, as longtime guitarist Phil Sgrosso has now quit the band. Sgrosso played for As I Lay Dying between 2003 and 2014, and then again from their reformation in 2018 until present day. Much like everyone else that has quit As I Lay Dying in the past week, Sgrosso has some pretty brutal words for the band.
"Hey everyone, thank you for your patience as I took time to gather my thoughts before speaking on the current state of As I Lay Dying," wrote Sgrosso.
"With recent events, including the departure of band members and the cancellation of our European tour ahead of a new album release, it's clear we're in a difficult and serious situation.
"Simply put, recent actions have shown that As I Lay Dying no longer offers a healthy or safe environment for anyone involved—whether creatively, personally, or professionally. After witnessing some concerning patterns of behavior, I've realized that I can no longer, in good conscience, enable further actions that could negatively affect anyone working within this space.
"For these reasons, I feel it's in my best interest to completely distance myself, both creatively and personally, from As I Lay Dying.
"I also want to share my full support for Ryan, Ken, and Nick, who made the choice to step away recently. I'm grateful for our accomplishments and friendship over the past 3 years.
"With 21 years that I have dedicated to this band, it does not sit well with me to leave or abandon what I've considered to be my 'life's work.' I don't feel that I, or others, should be forced out like so many have in the past.
"After all that's been put into this, I believe that with the right adjustments and restructuring, our music can continue to thrive and explore new possibilities in a healthier environment.
"Over time, As I Lay Dying has been held back by dysfunction, and I feel that it's no longer my responsibility to bear that burden.
"Thank you to everyone who has shown support for me and the music of As I Lay Dying. I'm looking forward to putting my energy and creativity into new, more positive ventures in the near future."
To recap how this all went down – first to leave was bassist Ryan Neff with barely any statement, and then their tour manager quit amidst rumors that As I Lay Dying's European tour was cancelled. Guitarist then Ken Susi then quit the band saying his "personal morals have recently been tested to a breaking point," followed immediately by drummer Nick Pierce quitting and saying he needs to "distance myself from the band in an effort to retain my personal health and integrity." Oh, and the European tour did get cancelled, but As I Lay Dying didn't break the news.
