Guitarist, Drummer & Bassist Quit As I Lay Dying, Cite 'Personal Morals'

American metalcore band As I Lay Dying now contains just two members after guitarist Ken Susi, drummer Nick Pierce, and bassist/singer Ryan Neff departed the band. At the time of publication, As I Lay Dying now consists of vocalist Tim Lambesis and rhythm guitarist Phil Sgrosso.

In 2014, Lambesis was sentenced to six years in jail for hiring a hitman to murder his wife. In May 2014, he was found guilty of soliciting the murder of Meggan Lambesis in early 2013. He hired a contract killer who turned out to be an undercover policeman not long after his wife filed for divorce in September 2012.

Tim Lambesis initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, three months later, as the trial approached, he changed his plea.

Meggan Lambesis is said to have filed a $2 million lawsuit against her former husband.

Lambesis rejoined the band in 2018. Susi, Pierce, and Neff all joined the band in 2022 and announced their departures on social media.

Susi shared the news on Instagram yesterday (24 October), writing that his “personal morals” had been tested within the band, leading to his decision to leave.

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“My time playing with As I Lay Dying has come to an end today,” Susi wrote, adding that he left with “so much gratitude” for everyone who’s supported his career to date.

Explaining that he had “full knowledge” of the band’s “heightened dramatic history” before he joined, he said that he had a “drive” to play “great music with great friends.”

His statement continued, “Unfortunately, my personal morals have recently been tested to a breaking point, and it's now the saddest ending to what could have been the greatest second chance for this band.

“Ryan Neff is receiving a lot of backlash for stepping down first, and I regret not sharing this decision sooner and standing confidently with my friend -- he's a flawless musician and an even better person.

“I'll miss you all on this stage, and I look forward to seeing you on the next one. Anyone looking for a guitar player? My resume is ready.”

Neff revealed that he left the band on 19 October, writing: “As of today, I have made the decision to leave As I Lay Dying. This choice comes after much reflection, and I believe it is the right step for my personal and professional journey. I am grateful for the experiences and connections I’ve made during my time with the band. Thank you to all the fans for your support.”

In Pierce’s statement, he wrote that he felt the need to depart the band to retain his “personal health and integrity.”

“As of now, I am no longer playing drums for As I Lay Dying,” Pierce wrote yesterday. “This is far from being the ending I anticipated, and I feel I need to distance myself from the band in an effort to retain my personal health and integrity.”

Expressing his “deepest gratitude” to all who have supported him, Pierce said his goal is “to create unforgettable memories” with friends and write music that will resonate with fans. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished on the road touring, as well as writing and recording drums for the new album,” he continued.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue my drumming career and pursue what I love most, which is making music. My touring and session schedule is now actively open for new opportunities.”

As I Lay Dying’s upcoming album, Through Storms Ahead, is set for release on Friday, 15 November.