Ever since Killswitch Engage announced that vocalist Howard Jones is leaving the band, the internet has been abuzz with who might replace him. All That Remains vocalist Phil Labonte already announced that it's not going to be him. As for former vocalist Jesse Leach, while he hasn't made any official statements on the matter, chances are it probably won't be him either. Today, we've learned of a new contender, former Divine Heresy vocalist, Tommy Vext.
Tommy, who is currently recording new music for his Vext project with bandmates Andrew Jacobs & Bill Fore of Mutiny Within in addition to guitarist Angel Vivaldi, recently spoke with The Blacktooth about Jones leaving and his interest in joining the band (Duh! Who wouldn't be interested?). Turns out the band might be interested as well. Here is the juiciest nugget from the piece:
My decision to sing for [Killswitch Engage] would be incumbent upon a unanimous band decision from not only my own band members but obviously the [Killswitch Engage] guys.
I've spoke with Vaughn Lewis at Strong Management (Killswitch's manager) today concerning auditions but that is all I can say for now.
Vext certainly has the chops to pull of Howard's vocals, and the experience and desire to be on the road. Personally, I think he'd be a suitable replacement. The irony of this story is, if this does end up happening, my buddy Axl Rosenberg of MetalSucks sorta called it with an April Fool's gag post he made in 2010 saying Howard quit and Tommy is in. Axl's mama must be proud. Would you guys be into Vext taking over on vocals?
