Founding Ne Obliviscaris vocalist Xenoyr has quit the band after 22 years. Joining is vocalist James Dorton (Black Crown Initiate, Replacire), who has been touring with Ne Obliviscaris since 2023 in place of Xenoyr. In his statement, Xenoyr notes his decision to leave was a mix of not having toured in a few years, some difficult years on a personal level, and some different projects he's been working on. The following are statements from both Ne Obliviscaris and Xenoyr.
"This may come as a surprise to some and yet expected for others, but after much deliberation I've decided to leave NeO, the band I started and have helped build for the last two decades," wrote Xen. "I'd always said that I'd be the last man standing in the band, and it was always my intention to return completely to the fold, but time and experience has changed me… and so here I am bowing out. The very simple reason is that considering where I am mentally and in life, extensive touring is no longer for me, and in turn meaning the band and I part ways.
"NeO has been one of my biggest priorities in life since 2003, I don't regret that. I'm proud of what we've achieved – but the dedication of time, preparation and commitment to heavy touring, as every musician knows, comes with a lot of sacrifice. Since 2019 (pre-pandemic), I've only played a handful of live shows and over the last few years I've gradually become more estranged from the touring process. So that coupled with some difficult years on a personal level, gave me time away from the hectic schedule to breathe and ultimately find clarity around what I value, what I want and how to proceed forward. My drive has always been first and foremost for the creative process of art, music, writing, and everything behind the scenes rather than being in the limelight every night, and so I plan to focus more on those things. Leaving NeO by no means implies that I'm giving up music, I have 3 other developing bands (Spiine, Omega Infinity, Antiqva) to focus on so I'll still be around releasing albums. Creativity keeps me breathing, the stage lights do not.
"Moving forward, NeO will continue, as they have been in my absence, with the assistance and dedication of the talented James Dorton on vocals. He's held the fort for me for numerous tours over the last couple of years and has done an incredible job, so I hand the hilt over to him – please make him feel welcome.
"I'd like to thank the fine lads in NeO, they've been gracious and understanding, and have given me the space to make one of the biggest decisions of my life. I don't really have enough words to express my gratitude to them for the years of collaboration, experiences, memories, and achievements (and for putting up with my incessant nagging for more blast beats) – Thank you for everything – we've done more than we thought possible, and have done what most Australian metal bands strive for – I don't see the train stopping anytime soon so I'm looking forward to watching the band continue to grow.
"Thank you immensely to the NeO patrons, I'm forever humbled for the support you've shown the band over the years, without you we definitely wouldn't have come as far as we have. And finally thank you to all the fans around the world, I appreciate you all putting up with my black and white life filter. This change is the only way forward for me, thank you all for understanding."
Ne Obliviscaris added their own statement, saying: "First of all to Xen– thank you for everything you have done for NeO over the last 21+ years, going way back to the band's inception in 2003. This band would literally not have existed without you and even though you are not continuing as an official member of the band, you will always be our brother. We love you buddy, and wish you all the best in this new chapter of your journey.
To all the fans- We never really imagined a version of NeO without Xen to be honest. But one thing we have learned over the years is that the ability to adapt and grow when things change is a must. With that in mind we are very excited to announce that James Dorton will officially be joining NeO as our new harsh vocalist. Having toured extensively with us over the last two years, many fans will already be familiar with James' incredible talents and how great a fit he is for our band. 2025 is going to be another very exciting one for us with a lot more touring on the horizon (USA, Mexico & EU festivals already announced; & more to come), plus new music in the works as well. Thank you as always to everyone for all your ongoing support, thank you once more to Xen for everything and a big warm welcome to James."
