Soen bassist Oleksii "Zlatoyar" Kobel has stepped down from the band after five years. Kobel performed on Soen's 2021 album Imperial, as well as their 2023 album Memorial. Soen has not yet named a replacement for Kobel, but promises that they're carrying on as a band and with all planned live shows.
"We want to share an update with you all. Our bassist, Zlatoyar, has chosen to take a break from Soen," wrote the band. "While we will miss having him with us on stage, and in the band.
"We fully support his decision and respect his need to step away. We are deeply grateful for everything he has contributed in these last 4 years. We wish him all the best during this break and look forward to what the future holds. Soen will continue forward, all booked shows will take place as planned and we can’t wait to share what's new with you all."
Soen has since issued a second statement, saying former bassist Stefan Stenberg has joined. Stenberg originally played for Soen between 2013 and 2020.
"Stefan is back!" wrote Soen. "Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Stefan Stenberg returns to the ranks of Soen for yet another powerful adventure! As a key part of the classic lineup, his presence has shaped the sound, energy, and essence of Soen's journey. And now, that legacy continues. With Stefan back in the fold, the journey ahead promises to be nothing short of monumental. Brace yourselves – this is just the beginning. Welcome home, Stefan!"
Soen's 2025 tour dates so far are as follows. Tickets are available here.
2/6 La Respuesta, San Juan, Puerto Rico
2/8 Soen and Strings, Mexico City, Mexico
2/9 Teatro Metropolitano, Santiago De Querétaro, Mexico
2/11 Municipal Civic Auditorium Lic. Benito Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Mexico
2/12 Pistoleros House Of Show, Chihuahua, Mexico
2/14 Cafe Iguana, Monterrey, Mexico
2/16 Palacio de la Música, Mérida, Mexico
2/19 Teatro José María Morelos, Morelia, Mexico
2/20 C3 Stage, Guadalajara, Mexico
2/23 Pepper Disco Club, Zapote, Costa Rica
2/25 Memorial Tour 2025, Córdoba, Argentina
2/26 Memorial Tour 2025, Buenos Aires, Argentina
2/28 Teatro Coliseo, Santiago, Chile
3/1 Teatro Coliseo, Santiago, Chile
3/2 Memorial Tour 2025, Concepción, Chile
