Guitarist Phil Sgrosso has officially announced his departure from As I Lay Dying, releasing a detailed statement that reflects his concerns about the band’s internal dynamics. This significant decision marks him as the fourth member to leave the metalcore band since October 18, highlighting a turbulent period for the group. Sgrosso expressed deep concern over what he describes as “concerning patterns of behavior” within the band, stating that it no longer provides a “healthy or safe environment” for any of its members, personally or professionally.

Following the exits of band members Ryan Neff, Ken Susi, and Nick Pierce, alongside an unaddressed cancellation of their European tour, Sgrosso reassured fans that he was aware of the ongoing issues and promised a forthcoming statement regarding his decision to leave.

In response to these departures, As I Lay Dying chose to break their silence on social media, but instead of addressing the departures or the canceled tour, which had only been confirmed by supporting venues and bands, they opted to clarify a completely different issue—the absence of their 2019 album, Shaped By Fire, from streaming platforms.

In a brief note at the end of that post, the band mentioned they are “still sorting through the details of what is going on within AILD and will have more details for you soon.” Notably, comments on that post were disabled, indicating a desire to manage the narrative surrounding their current situation.

Now, Sgrosso has publicly articulated his reasons for leaving the band he joined in 2003, emphasizing that recent events have led him to the conclusion that As I Lay Dying no longer provides a secure or supportive atmosphere for any of its members, creatively, personally, or professionally.

His statement reflects a serious commitment to both his own integrity and the well-being of his fellow musicians. Sgrosso voiced full support for his recently departed bandmates, emphasizing that their collective experiences were not conducive to a positive musical environment.

He stated, “After witnessing some concerning patterns of behavior, I’ve realized that I can no longer, in good conscience, enable further actions that could negatively affect anyone working within this space.” He expressed a feeling of responsibility to distance himself from the dysfunction that has plagued the band, noting, “Over time, As I Lay Dying has been held back by dysfunction and I feel that it’s no longer my responsibility to bear the burden.”

For more insights, see the full statement below. Comments on Sgrosso’s post have been disabled to maintain focus on the message.

Phil Sgrosso’s Detailed Statement on His Departure

On October 30, Sgrosso publicly shared his statement regarding his departure from As I Lay Dying:

Hey everyone,

Thank you for your patience as I took time to gather my thoughts before speaking on the current state of As I Lay Dying.

Given the recent events, including the departure of several band members and the unfortunate cancellation of our European tour just ahead of a new album release, it’s clear that we are in a challenging and serious situation.

In short, the recent actions within the band have demonstrated that As I Lay Dying no longer provides a healthy or safe environment for anyone involved—whether creatively, personally, or professionally. After observing some concerning patterns of behavior, I’ve come to the conclusion that I can no longer, in good conscience, support actions that could adversely impact anyone within this space.

For these reasons, I believe it is in my best interest to completely distance myself, both creatively and personally, from As I Lay Dying.

I also want to extend my full support to Ryan, Ken, and Nick, who made the decision to step away recently. I’m thankful for our accomplishments and the friendship we’ve built over the past three years.

Having dedicated 21 years to this band, it weighs heavily on my heart to leave or abandon what I’ve considered my “life’s work.” It is unjust that I, or anyone else, should feel compelled to exit, as has happened in the past.

With everything that has been invested in this journey, I firmly believe that with the right adjustments and restructuring, our music can continue to flourish and open up new possibilities in a healthier environment.

Over time, As I Lay Dying has been stifled by dysfunction, and I feel that it’s no longer my burden to carry.

Thank you to everyone who has shown support for me and the music of As I Lay Dying. I’m eager to channel my energy and creativity into new, more positive ventures in the near future.

-Phil Sgrosso

Understanding the Reasons Behind Recent Departures from As I Lay Dying

The recent exits of the other three members of As I Lay Dying occurred in a remarkably short span of less than two weeks, signaling a critical moment in the band’s history.

Interestingly, none of these musicians directly referenced Tim Lambesis</b, the remaining member, preferring instead to express support for their fellow musicians or merely convey their gratitude to the fans. All four members who departed have cited “personal” reasons among others, indicating a shared sentiment surrounding the band’s current state.

Read below the complete statements from each of the members who have chosen to leave As I Lay Dying this month.

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 unwavering support.

READ MORE: As I Lay Dying Bassist Exits Just Weeks Before New Album Release

My time with As I Lay Dying has come to an end today. I leave with immense gratitude for everyone who has supported me throughout my journey, from my days in Unearth to this chapter of my career. I entered the AILD camp fully aware of its complex history, driven by a desire to create exceptional music with great friends.

Regrettably, my personal morals have been tested to a breaking point, marking a somber conclusion to what could have been a remarkable second chance for this band.

Ryan Neff has faced considerable backlash for being the first to step down, and I regret not voicing my decision sooner to stand firmly with my friend—he is a phenomenal musician and an even better person.

I will miss performing on stage with you all, and I look forward to reconnecting with you at future events. Anyone seeking a guitar player? My resume is ready.

READ MORE: Ken Susi Departs As I Lay Dying, Calls It the ‘Saddest Ending’ for Band’s ‘Second Chance’

As of now, I am no longer playing drums for As I Lay Dying. This is far from the ending I had anticipated, and I feel the need to distance myself from the band to maintain my personal health and integrity.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. My goal has consistently been to create unforgettable memories with my friends and to craft music that resonates with our fans. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished on tour, as well as in writing and recording drums for the new album.

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my drumming career and pursue my passion for making music. My touring and session schedule is now open for new opportunities.

READ MORE: Drummer Nick Pierce Splits from As I Lay Dying in Statement – ‘I Need to Distance Myself’

Dany Lambesis Addresses Abuse Rumors Surrounding Tim Lambesis

In light of the lack of an official response from As I Lay Dying or its current members, including Sgrosso and the remaining member Tim Lambesis, speculation began circulating online regarding the reasons behind the sudden personnel changes within the band.

Dany Lambesis, Tim Lambesis‘ wife, took to social media to address what she termed as “unfounded rumors” suggesting that her husband had been abusive. Just one day prior, she had deleted her Instagram account, only to restore it to private before making it public again to share her statement.

Her complete statement, shared on October 25, is as follows:

I am writing this statement to address the recent rumors circulating on social media regarding my husband, Tim Lambesis, and the allegations of domestic violence. It has come to my attention that false claims have been made, suggesting that my husband has harmed me.

I want to make it unequivocally clear that these allegations are completely false. My husband has never caused me harm in this manner, and I am deeply saddened by the unfounded rumors that have emerged during this challenging time for his band. There has never been an incident that warrants such accusations. Although we have faced relationship challenges like many couples, nothing has ever escalated to the level of domestic violence or the portrayal online.

It is disheartening that I find myself in a position where I must publicly clarify my personal life and relationship due to blatant lies. It is deeply unfair that misinformation has spread so rapidly without anyone considering my voice in the matter. This situation is unjust for both Tim and me, as well as for our relationship.

I am saddened to see how quickly false information can proliferate and the profound impact it can have on individuals and families. I kindly ask that you respect our privacy during this time and refrain from further perpetuating these damaging rumors.

READ MORE: Dany Lambesis Responds to Recent Rumors About Tim Lambesis