The very predictable collapse of Iced Earth continues! This morning both vocalist Stu Block and bassist Luke Appleton announced they had quit the band due to guitarist Jon Schaffer's participation in the January 6 insurrection.
Now guitarist Jake Dreyer has commented on his status in Iced Earth to TMZ, saying he's focused on Witherfall and "it's unfortunate how this tragedy unfolded [with Iced Earth]." Dreyer has removed his affiliation with Iced Earth from his Instagram, and said "Iced Earth employed him from 2016 to 2018." So yeah, Dreyer is out too, though it sounds like he wasn't even technically in the band since 2018.
Here's what Block had to say in his previous statement.
"Hey All, 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."Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.
Appleton's statement is as follows from earlier.
"In response to recent events & circumstances, I have notified Iced Earth's management and Jon 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!!!"
Now the only other person we're waiting to see a comment from is drummer Brent Smedley, who has been the band's drummer on and off between 1996 and present day.
This all follows Hansi Kürsch's departure from Demons & Wizards as well from later last month. Schaffer is currently in the custody of U.S. Marshals and is being charged with six separate crimes, one of which accuses him of spraying Capitol police with bear spray, a more potent form of pepper spray.
