Canadian Metallers The Agonist Disband After 19 Years

Canadian melo-death outfit The Agonist are breaking up after 19 years as a band, citing “a mix of personal, financial and industry related issues” as the reason behind their disbandment.

The Agonist formed in Montreal, Quebec, in 2004. The original iteration of the band featured former vocalist and founding member, Alissa White Gluz, who split from the band after ten years and joined Arch Enemy.

Following Gluz’s departure, vocalist Vicky Psarakis joined the band in 2014. She recorded three albums with The Agonist – 2015’s Eye Of Providence, 2016’s Five, and 2019’s Orphans, as well as the 2021 EP, Days Before The World Wept.

The Agonist’s full statement surrounding their breakup reads:

"Dear friends, it's time to make a very difficult but necessary announcement. We have decided that The Agonist as a band, has come to an end. Much deliberation and care has been put into making this decision, and unfortunately, given the circumstances, this is the conclusion that makes the most sense for the band and us as individuals.

"There are many factors that led to this decision. It is a mix of personal, financial and industry related issues, but in the end the 5 of us are no longer able to agree on a way forward that would benefit The Agonist business as a whole, while respecting each member's personal lives and wishes.

"We want to express our deepest gratitude to the fans for coming out to the shows, buying our merch, and supporting us over the years. Nothing is more satisfying than connecting with our fellow human beings via the gift of music. It is the number one factor that has always driven us- to make you, the listener, feel something. In the end, we know that we've accomplished this together.

"Some members of the band will continue to work on music in various ways, others will focus on personal projects and family. We kindly ask you to respect their privacy on this particular matter and encourage you to follow them on their individual social media accounts to support their future endeavors.

"Vicky Psarakis will be carrying on with her band, Sicksense. They have a new EP coming out this summer and she will be playing 2 live shows with them in Montreal, in June. You can also directly support her by following her on Patreon and Twitch.

"Simon McKay is currently looking to join a band full-time, while offering session work for studio and live gigs. Also, keep an eye out for new music coming soon from his solo project.

"Chris Kells will be focusing on his career as a videographer. Since 2015, he has directed all of The Agonist's music videos, as well as many other established bands.

"Danny Marino is currently writing music for 2 new projects.

"Paco Jobin will be releasing new music with his project Leading The Betrayed.

"Once again, we thank you and we love you. 'We will survive. At the end of the tunnel there's always a light.'"