AS I LAY DYING vocalist Tim Lambesis has commented on the departure of guitarist Nick Hipa.
Last month Hipa confirmed that he was leaving AS I LAY DYING, saying that he can no longer justify being part of “a superficial pursuit” of the “story and meaning” that the band’s 2018 reunion was built upon.
Hipa wrote on his Instagram on August 31: “At this point though, it has been well over a year since I have distanced myself from [AS I LAY DYING] on a personal and professional level. In that time they have only given fans merchandising posts and show announcements. This sort of activity highlights and reinforces our differences.
“Respectfully, I left because the story and meaning we built our reunion upon decayed considerably over time. What primarily endures is a superficial pursuit I cannot justify supporting or being part of. This is not an indictment on any who choose to remain or be involved. There is tremendous good that can be accomplished through singular focus on the power of music. However to my memory and recent experience, it comes at the cost of tolerating behavior which at times mistreats, disrespects, and hurts other people. I do not have it in me to walk that road again.
“The talent and unshakeable ambition of the band is undeniable. They will continue to release successful music and do great business. On a human level, I hope everything else fares well for them.”
Earlier today (Friday, September 10), Tim Lambesis posted a photo of him and Hipa to his Instagram with the accompanying message: “Being able to have different opinions or priorities but to still deeply care for another person’s wellbeing is something that’s often lost in our current climate. I just want to say that I truly wish Nick Hipa the best in his next chapter of life, and I’m thankful he wishes me/AILD the same.
“I’ve wanted to focus on music for past few years because it takes me back to why I started AILD in the first place 20 years ago. I look forward to writing new music and seeing many of you on tour again soon!”
Lambesis was convicted in 2014 for his participation in a murder-for-hire plot against his estranged wife.
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