ICED EARTH vocalist Stu Block and bassist Luke Appleton have both announced their respective departures from the band. The pair were members of Iced Earth for nearly a decade.
The move comes roughly a month after Iced Earth founder and guitarist Jon Schaffer was arrested for his role in the early January riot at the U.S. Capitol.
Block released the following statement via Facebook: “Well, there are times and events when you have to take stock and re-evaluate your life, work, and trajectory for the future. That being said I have informed Jon and his current management that I must announce my resignation from Iced Earth with immediate effect. Before I made any personal decision I needed the last few weeks to process the situation as well as respect others in our camp processing the situation. I thank you all very much for respecting this. It’s the best decision in many ways for my personal / professional growth going forward. Time to move on, heal and prosper. Much love and respect to you all. Don’t fret! Stay tuned for some exciting things to come! Time to embark upon a new chapter. Be good to each other.”
Meanwhile, Appleton had this to say: “In response to recent events and circumstances, I have notified Iced Earth’s management and Jon [Schaffer] that I will be resigning as the Iced Earth bassist with immediate effect. I would like to thank everyone who has sent me their support and love during this difficult time. Thank you!”
Schaffer remains in prison awaiting a handful of federal charges.
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