Following the recent departure of keyboardist/programmer Chris Spicuzza comes word that drummer Andols Herrick has also exited CHIMAIRA. Herrick commented on his departure from the group with the following statement issued exclusively to ThePRP.com:

“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.

Read Herrick's full statement at this location.

Meanwhile the band have issued the following update:

"We will be hosting a live chat on our Ustream channel tonight at 9 PM (EST). In addition to answering questions about the new album, we will discuss the past, present, and the future of Chimaira. Looking forward to seeing you all, and please help spread the word. Thank you!"

Tune in to Chimaira's Ustream channel at 9 PM (EST) tonight at this location.