Ice Nine Kills is out on the road with Metallica for their world tour, as well as a headlining tour of their own. Unfortunately Ice Nine Kills guitarist Dan Sugarman will not be joining the band thanks to a recent medical diagnosis. In his place will be guitarists Doc Coyle (God Forbid, Bad Wolves) and Miles Dimitri Baker (Interloper, Voidbringer).
We wish Sugarman all the best in his recovery, and extend our congratulations to both Coyle and Baker! That rules!
"We're excited to see all of you European psychos as we embark on Metallica's M72 world tour as well as our own Wurst Vacation headliner, all of which kicks off this weekend in Amsterdam.
"But unfortunately, we do so with a heavy heart. Over the last several months we had been working toward bringing our brother and lead guitarist, Dan Sugarman, back on stage with us for the first time since post-COVID touring. As he announced today, however, Dan is unable to join us due to his recent medical diagnosis.
"While supporting our boy is always top of mind, Dan and the band have been working together to train two of the top guitar players in heavy music to fill his insanely big shoes – Miles Dimitri Baker and Doc Coyle. These two friends of ours will join Ricky for a triple guitar onslaught the likes of which you've never seen.
"In addition, Doc will carry Dan's spirit on stage with us by using his signature guitar model, The Murder Axe.
"Please welcome Miles and Doc to the INK family and send Dan all the love and support he needs right now. We'll see you soon… the shows are right around the coroner…"
Sugarman also issued his own statement, saying "This is the hardest thing I've ever had to do, but there's a reason for everything… And you've probably been wondering where I've been. I appreciate your love and support more than you could ever know. This vlog update explains it all. Please watch the full video.
"Long and short of it – I am healing… I am here, I'm not going anywhere, and at the same time – I can't wait to come back. Please know that I am ok, and when sending me any well wishes, focus on that if you can."
He continued: "If you want to be an absolute legend and show your love and help support to me through all of this – Please consider picking up some merch, coffee, tab books, bloodline guitar cable, murder axe guitar, guitar lessons, artwork, cameos, my music, and anything else that speaks to you. If donations are more your speed, you can Venmo me @dansugarman."
