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, 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.