Founding Corrosion Of Conformity bassist Mike Dean has left the band. Dean played in Corrosion Of Conformity between 1982 and 1987, 1993 and 2006, and then from 2010 to present day. Dean cites the physical distance between himself and his bandmates as the reason, alongside finding it difficult to create new material in the wake of founding drummer Reed Mullin's death in 2020.
"Recently I made a decision to step away from Corrosion Of Conformity, a band started 40 odd years ago by Reed Mullin, Woody Weatherman, and myself," wrote Dean. "I'm extremely proud of everything we've done together, and look forward to hearing more from the band going forward.
"When I rejoined COC for the finishing touches of the Deliverance album, I moved back to Raleigh, NC for an all-in creative campaign, but time, distance and side projects and life in general has changed all of that. Ever since Reed drifted away from the band and then passed way, it's been difficult for me to collaborate on new material with bandmates who live hundreds of miles away.
"I look forward to putting together a new Raleigh based outlet to create new music with more alacrity and with more of an emphasis on my own ideas than in recent times. Also, I look forward to continuing to record and produce other artists. All the best to Woodroe, Pepper, and COC crew, and most importantly, many big thanks to the fans of all iterations of the band, who have made this real for all of these years. Salute!"
"PS Stay tuned here for links and more information."
Corrosion Of Conformity issued a statement alongside Dean's statement, saying they wish Dean all the best while noting that Corrosion Of Conformity is not finished.
"We, Woodroe and Pepper, are in full support of Dean's future endeavors and wish him all the best in the quest. Thankful for the music made and (R)evolutionary paths created.
"That being said, this book of Corrosion is not finished, nor will the train stop. The opportunity to play music and create is something that we don't take lightly, and we will not waver. New COC recording is well underway and will be released in 2025.
"Much love and respect to all the free thinkin' beer drinkin' friends and fans worldwide, looking to making more. Without you, we are just growing deaf in a garage. See you on the horizon. Stay tuned, stay heavy."
