Devildriver have revealed changes to their lineup! Following the departure of bassist Diego’ Ashes’ Ibarra, these groove metal giants welcomed original bassist Jon Miller after over a decade-long absence. Additionally, the band has recruited guitarist Alex Lee (Holy Grail) to the fold, officially replacing Neal Tiemann. The current lineup now consists of Dez Fafara (vocals), Mike Spreitzer (guitar), Jon Miller (bass), Alex Lee (guitar), and Austin D’Amond (drums), who all are looking forward to returning to the road sometime this fall!
Miller comments on his return:
“After spending the past 10 years away from writing music, recording, and touring, I have made the decision to return to DEVILDRIVER to settle some unfinished business with two lifelong friends.”
Dez adds:
“Jon is a monster on bass and wrote much of our early material. We began talking daily and it just felt right… and having him onstage again will be absolutely pummeling technically and visually! For the fans that have seen the band with Jon in it, please welcome him back. And for those of you who haven’t, get ready because he holds it down! Having most of the OG members in the band now after almost 20 years feels good! Get ready because we have a massive tour announcement coming in August! It’s been since July 2019 that we’ve toured, and the break was needed. The fire is there now and we are ready to destroy stages!”
Spreitzer states:
“It’s been a solid decade since I’ve shared the stage with Jon Miller, and I’m thrilled to have him back in DEVILDRIVER. Without him, I probably wouldn’t be in the band. He was one of the first friends I made when I moved to Santa Barbara in 1999 that eventually lead to me joining DEVILDRIVER. I’m very much looking forward to getting out on the road and having him with us again.”
Dez discusses parting ways with Ibarra, stating:
“It’s always difficult letting guys go in any line of work, but we thank Ashes for his time playing with DEVILDRIVER on tour. I’m sad I had to let him go, but to make way for an original member was the right thing to do. We wish him the best and he’s a great guy.”
Spreitzer adds:
“Ashes has been an amazing addition to the DEVILDRIVER family over the years. He’s one of the most solid and fun guys I have ever had the honor to call my friend. I’m going to miss our 3-4 hour long morning coffee sessions that we shared since he joined. He will forever be my brother.”
Lee comments on joining the group:
“Back in 2016, I had the privilege of touring with DEVILDRIVER with my old band (Holy Grail). We got along great and kept in touch over the years. Fast forward to the present, I am thrilled to announce that I’ll be joining the DEVILDRIVER family! Dez made the final call to give me this opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. Great guys, heavy music, and I can’t wait to see you all on the road!”
Dez discusses his excitement on Lee:
“Alex is a bad ass on guitar and one of the most talented guys I’ve seen in years. He gets along well with the band, he’s a great writer, and onstage he brings the energy. We welcome him and look forward to years of good times.”
