Last week, fans were surprised to hear that drummer Kevin Lane left deathcore group Whitechapel. However, according to Lane, it’s been a decision in the making for a long time. Lane released the following statement to give more insight into his departure:
“Over the past years I’ve had the experience of a lifetime and gotten to travel the world with not only a great band of musicians but some of my best friends. Unfortunately, that time has come to an end. My playing had a falling out over the past year, thus I’ve decided to come home for good and go back to school full-time.
The past few tours I had the privilege of my good friend Gavin Parsons to fill my shoes, and now another phenomenal drummer who I believe will do leaps and bounds of improvement to the band as a whole, Ben Harclerode, has moved into the position until the decision for a full-time drummer has been made.”
Whitechapel has also confirmed that Knights Of The Abyss drummer Ben Harclerode will be joining the band for the time being. Guitarist Alex Wade released the following statement:
“It’s sad to see Kevin go; he was not just a fellow bandmember, but like a brother to all of us. I think it is honorable of him to step down to better the band. He is still, and always will be, an amazing drummer and talented musician; I believe it is just time for a new chapter for Whitechapel.
That being said, we would like to welcome Ben Harclerode to the band to fill the drumming position. In my opinion, he is one of the most solid and talented drummers in modern metal and we couldn’t be more excited for him to be playing with us. Ben will be helping us out until we take further measures to decide on a permanent drummer, but that is just something that is not needed right now, nor are we taking submissions.”
While it’s a shame that the band has had to part ways with a band member who they also consider a friend, it’s important to remember that the lifestyle of a national touring band isn’t for everybody. Some are able to get out before things take a turn for the worst while others don’t realize it until it’s too late. We wish Lane the best of luck on his future endeavors.
