Arch Enemy Cut Ties with Longtime Band Member
Arch Enemy have cut ties with a longtime band member – Author Charles Ken, Photo via Katja Kuhl
It’s always a bit heartbreaking when a band parts ways with a critical member of the group. That’s even more so the case when it’s a longtime band member. But, considering that bands can last for decades, it makes sense that lineups change throughout the years. Not many bands are as consistent as, oh, U2 or Alter Bridge. Now, Swedish melodic death metal band Arch Enemy has cut ties with a longtime band member.
Arch Enemy founder Michael Amott took to social media to break the news, which involves a band member that’s been with the band for nearly a decade.
The band is parting ways with longtime guitarist Jeff Loomis. But, some good news is that the lineup change won’t impact any future tour dates.
“It’s been a joy having Jeff play with Arch Enemy for close to a decade, we truly had a blast touring around the world together! We were friends long before we played music together and we remain even closer buddies now, which feels great. We respect that he’s in a place and time in life where he needs to step out of Arch Enemy and we all wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”
He added that “the only constant is change, and this is one of those moments where things had to change a little to move forward in a satisfactory way for everyone involved.”
So, who is the new Arch Enemy guitarist? Amott, in the same message, announced that Joey Concepcion would serve as the band’s new six-stringer. “Joey’s a phenomenal talent and has been a friend of the band for a long time, he even filled in for Jeff on a couple of European festival shows back in 2018,” Amott said. We have touring and a myriad of other exciting things coming up on the horizon with Arch Enemy for 2024 and beyond and are thrilled to move forward, creating the next chapter and keeping the metal flowing!”
On joining Arch Enemy, Concepcion stated, “It’s an honor and a privilege to be working with Arch Enemy and I’m very much looking forward to shredding stages across the globe together, playing for and meeting all the fans!”
So, was this a mutual parting? It appears so. Loomis also commented about his departure, stating, “My time in Arch Enemy has come to an end. I have had a great time (9 years!) of playing and touring with them, but now it’s time to enter a new chapter in my life. I wish Alissa, Michael, Sharlee and Daniel the very best and consider them all lifelong friends. I’d also like to thank the crew that have always been nothing but kind to me. Their hard work and dedication towards the band is incredible, and we wouldn’t be able to put on the great shows without them. Thank you again for all your support over the years and Happy New Year.”
Looking into 2024, Arch Enemy have shows lined up for October and November, mainly in the United Kingdom and Europe. Find upcoming tour dates here.
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