Band Photo: Chimaira "Since Chris released his statement recently, I suppose its time that I do so as well since I have been dodging questions and comments for almost as long. I am no longer a member of Chimaira, and actually haven’t been since before Christmas. I did play at Chimaira Christmas 11, which was my last show. I certainly couldn’t have asked for a better and more memorable way to go out.
"I cannot stress enough how significantly different the circumstances are now than back in 2004. The short story is that the guys had taken issue with certain aspects of my role in the band. Nothing discussed was out of anger or anything personal, but I was definitely not expecting it and it was quite the spirit crusher for me. The decision was made that it would be in the band’s best interest to move forward without me.
"I was obviously devastated, but again there was no ill will between us. Later, I was asked to rejoin, but after some painful contemplation in my mind, I decided it was best not to. I started to see everything that happened as something that was ultimately positive. I share some of the same concerns that Chris mentioned in his statement, namely the current state of the music industry and concerns about my future.
"A major transition in life is much more manageable at 31 than it is in your late 30’s or early 40’s, so as a guy with literally zero experience in anything else, better now then later. Plus, it would be hard to go back without feeling constantly uneasy about the situation."
Chimaira held an online chat last night and Rob stated that they are on good terms with all of the recently departed members and still speak to them frequently.
Read the full article at The PRP.com.
source : metalunderground.com
