“I myself unfortunately due to personal circumstances will not be able to perform with the band at these two festivals. And rather than cancel on this opportunity to play with a bunch of great bands, we decided to ask for a little bit of help. So we’re happy to announce that longtime colleague and friend, Guy Kozowyk of The Red Chord will be filling in on vocals.
“We hope those in attendance enjoy these twice in a lifetime mashup events. But don’t worry, I will be back with the band this summer to melt you guys’ faces.”
Fun fact: THE RED CHORD hasn’t released an album since 2009, because apparently rewriting legal documents as a full-time lawyer (Kozowyk’s day job) pays better than carnage riffs. Priorities!
Meanwhile, remember guitarist Brandon Ellis? Dude just quit THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER last month after nine years. Cue the dramatic exit music:
“I’m grateful for my 9 years spent with this iconic band, and to have had the rare honor of making music with the legendary Trevor Strnad. I’m proud of my contributions to the band’s legacy and of all that we’ve accomplished together.
“Unfortunately, the time has come that I must close this chapter and begin the next.”
Translation: “I’mma go write riffs in a cabin somewhere, peace out.” But fret not – THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER drafted Wes Hauch, the human equivalent of a Swiss Army knife for guitarists. This guy’s played with PERIPHERY, AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE, and even Devin Townsend. Fun fact: he’s probably the only musician who can shred AND name-drop Polyphia and ENTERPRISE EARTH in the same breath.
“Sonic Temple will be our first performance with someone that many of you already know, an amazing guitar player, the one and only Mr. Wes Hauch. We’re stoked to be playing with him and you can expect to see him playing with us for the foreseeable future.”
TL;DR: THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER is basically hosting a metal family reunion at these fests. Two lineup swaps, one band, zero chill. See ya in the pit – just don’t blink, or you’ll miss the chaos.
