The recent changes within the music scene surrounding Tim Lambesis continue, as another significant departure has occurred within his side project, Austrian Death Machine. Drummer Brandon Short announced his exit from the band over the weekend, marking a pivotal moment following the departure of all four members of As I Lay Dying, leaving Lambesis as the sole remaining member. This shift raises questions about the future direction of both projects and the impacts of these departures on their musical legacies.

Understanding Brandon Short’s Reasons for Leaving Austrian Death Machine

Short took to Instagram to share the heartfelt reasons behind his departure from Austrian Death Machine, revealing sentiments that resonate with the recent exits of As I Lay Dying’s members. In his post, he expressed, “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to step away from Austrian Death Machine. For the sake of my mental well-being and personal beliefs, and in light of the recent developments surrounding the As I Lay Dying camp and Tim, this has become an inevitable step for me.” His words highlight the emotional toll that the situation has taken on him.

He elaborated, stating, “My integrity and character have been called into question in a way I can no longer accept, especially with what has come to light and being in utter disbelief.” This reflection indicates a deep struggle with the circumstances unfolding within the bands, shedding light on the serious implications for all involved.

Short further articulated his feelings, saying, “The repeated promises, the endless cycle of ‘I’ll do better’—words that once gave me hope—have turned into a broken record that has brought no real change. Instead, I found myself trapped in a pattern that eroded my trust and my well-being.” This statement underscores the emotional burden he has carried, affecting not only his professional life but also his personal health and happiness. Short emphasizes that the impact has reached a point that he can no longer ignore.

Short’s full statement can be viewed below.

!!DEPARTURE STATEMENT!!

It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to step away from Austrian Death Machine. For the sake of my mental well-being and personal beliefs, and in light of the recent developments surrounding the As I Lay Dying camp and Tim, this has become an inevitable step for me. Although it feels necessary, it’s one I made after deep reflection as these events began to unravel.

To walk away from something I cherished so deeply, that once felt like a fulfilled dream, is incredibly painful. I grew up listening to As I Lay Dying and Austrian Death Machine, never imagining that one day I’d be part of this world that meant so much to my younger self. But dreams can come at an unexpected cost, and that cost has proven to be too great. My integrity and character have been called into question in a way I can no longer accept, especially with what has come to light and being in utter disbelief.

The repeated promises, the endless cycle of “I’ll do better”—words that once gave me hope—have turned into a broken record that has brought no real change. Instead, I found myself trapped in a pattern that eroded my trust and my well-being. This cycle has reached into my personal life, affecting my mental health in ways I can no longer ignore.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who enjoyed my drumming on Austrian Death Machine’s latest album—it was a project I poured so much effort and pride into. To all who supported me and came out to the shows in Europe, thank you for being part of that incredible experience.

Here’s to embracing new adventures and creating even more music that resonates. The best is yet to come!

Tim Lambesis Addresses the Unfolding Departures from As I Lay Dying

Following the exits of all four members from the band, Tim Lambesis took the opportunity to address the situation, reflecting on the “unhealthy environment” that contributed to these significant departures. He remarked, “As I reflect, I certainly agree that there was an unhealthy environment that made leaving for a new tour with the previous lineup unrealistic.” His acknowledgment of these conditions indicates a recognition of the challenges faced by the band.

Lambesis continued, “It had become difficult to figure out even the smallest details, and I admit I can stick strong to my vision for the future of AILD even when others think it should go another direction.” This expression of conflict highlights the tensions that arose within the band dynamics, revealing how differing visions can lead to significant fallout.

“It saddens me to think about the behaviors, communication, and patterns of interaction that led up to the tour cancellation. Phil and I no longer saw eye to personally, creatively, or financially.” His words suggest a breakdown in relationships that were once strong, emphasizing how creative differences can lead to irrevocable changes in a band’s lineup.

He further stated, “I fully support each of the guys’ decisions to leave and believe at this time it is best for everyone. With that being said, my door will always remain open to discussing anything directly as I believe closing communication lead to many assumptions and problems of its own.” This openness to dialogue indicates a hope for future reconciliation and understanding, even amidst turmoil.

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In his statement, Lambesis reiterated his intent to continue the band, and since then, several festival appearances have been booked for 2025. The group also recently released their new album, Through Storms Ahead, despite the departures of most of the musicians who contributed to its creation, raising questions about the future trajectory of As I Lay Dying.

The Turbulent Journey of As I Lay Dying: A Brief Overview

In 2013, Tim Lambesis faced significant legal challenges when he was arrested for an alleged murder-for-hire plot against his estranged wife Meggan. Initially entering a “not guilty” plea, Lambesis later changed his plea to guilty for solicitation of murder in 2014 and was sentenced to six years in prison. This marked a pivotal moment in the band’s history, one that would lead to lasting consequences.

During his incarceration, the remaining members of As I Lay Dying—Nick Hipa, Jordan Mancino, Josh Gilbert, and Sgrosso—distanced themselves from Lambesis and formed a new group called Wovenwar. This separation highlights the profound impact of Lambesis’s actions on his bandmates and their artistic direction.

Upon his release from prison in December 2016, As I Lay Dying made a comeback approximately two years later, reuniting with all original members involved during the singer’s arrest. They announced a new album titled Shaped By Fire in 2019, which was met with mixed reactions but marked a significant return to the metal scene.

However, over the subsequent years, members Nick Hipa, Jordan Mancino, and Josh Gilbert all departed from As I Lay Dying, leading Lambesis to acknowledge that overcoming the past was a challenging endeavor for the remaining members. This complex history continues to shape the narrative surrounding the band.

Dany Lambesis Speaks Out Against Domestic Abuse Allegations

In late October, Dany, Tim Lambesis’s current wife, publicly addressed rumors surrounding allegations of abuse by her husband. She stated, “I want to make it unequivocally clear that these allegations are completely false. My husband has never caused harm to me in this manner, and I am deeply saddened by the unfounded rumors that have emerged during this challenging time for his band.” Dany’s statement signifies a strong defense of her husband amidst swirling controversies.

She further clarified, “We have had our relationship issues like many other couples, but nothing to the degree of domestic violence or what is being portrayed online.” This assertion emphasizes the importance of context in understanding personal relationships, particularly under public scrutiny.

Dany concluded, “It is disheartening to witness how quickly misinformation can spread and the impact it can have on individuals and families. I ask that you respect our privacy during this time and refrain from perpetuating these harmful rumors any further.” This plea for privacy highlights the personal struggles faced by the couple in light of public speculation.