Ken Susi and Nick Pierce leave As I Lay Dying

Guitarist Ken Susi and drummer Nick Pierce have announced their immediate departure from the American metalcore band As I Lay Dying. Both musicians shared on social media that they are leaving the band but confirmed that the scheduled shows will proceed with replacement musicians.

Ken Susi joined the band in 2022, replacing Nick Hipa. With his background as the guitarist for Unearth, he brought fresh energy to As I Lay Dying. His technical guitar playing and dynamic stage presence were enthusiastically received by fans. In a personal statement, Susi explained that he wanted to focus on other musical projects and his work as a producer.

Nick Pierce, former drummer of Unearth, also joined the band in 2022, replacing Jordan Mancino. Despite his short time with As I Lay Dying, he impressed with his technically refined drumming during recent tours.

In their farewell message, Pierce and Susi did not provide a specific reason for their departure but Ken Susi referred to Ryan Neff, who left the band last week.

Susi and Pierce’s departure is possibly linked to personal issues involving frontman Tim Lambesis. Lambesis previously made headlines for attempting to hire a hitman to kill his then-wife. Recent relationship problems with his third wife may have caused further turmoil within the band. On social media, it was noted that his wife, Dany Ciara, had briefly removed Lambesis’ surname from her profile, although it has since been restored.

As I Lay Dying has not yet issued an official response to the departure of the two members. Founded in 2000, the band has experienced several lineup changes over the years but remains one of the leading names in the metalcore scene under Tim Lambesis’ leadership. Their new album, “Through Storms Ahead”, is set to be released on November 15.

Update: Also tour manager Alex Kendrick is leaving the band. However, he emphasizes that his departure has nothing to do with Tim Lambesis, with whom he reportedly remains on good terms. The upcoming European tour seems to be cancelled.