Photo by @pepo_herrera
Venerated drummer Eloy Casagrande has confirmed that he has made his exit from Sepultura following his 13 year stretch with the band. The news arrives just two months after Sepultura shared the news of their 40th anniversary farewell trek, their final run ever on the Celebrating Life Through Death World Tour.
Confirmation of Casagrande's departure also came from the band, as they release a lengthy statement. Reiterating their priority in preparing for the upcoming 18-month long farewell world tour, the band also shared that Greyson Nekrutman of Suicidal Tendencies would take on Casagrande's seat behind the drums for the duration of the tour.
Sepultura issued the following statement, "Beginning of December the group clearly defined the intention at the announcement, it is a 'conscious and planned death'. As poetic as it sounds, a tour of this magnitude took nearly of year of preparing and planning which would require a lot commitment, ethics and loyalty to their fans, as well as respecting for the band's history — something that is a clear priority to Andreas Kisser, Derrick Green and Paulo Xisto.
However, on February 6th a few days prior to the first rehearsal, drummer Eloy Casagrande informed the band that he was leaving Sepultura to pursue a career in another project. The band were taken by surprise, without prior warning, he immediately left the band, abandoning everything related to Sepultura. Luckily American virtuoso Greyson Nekrutman will take the position of Eloy Casagrande and is welcomed as the band's new drummer for the 'Celebrating Life Through Death' farewell tour."
As for Casagrande's take, the drummer expressed gratitude towards the band and the fans, confiding that while the decision was not an easy one to make, he has the future in mind. "I would like to announce my departure from Sepultura. Being part of the biggest Brazilian metal band was one of the best experiences of my life. I just want to thank the band and crew members."
Casagrande continued, "It was a story of almost 13 years, in which I had the opportunity to learn and contribute with every song, show and recording. These were years of great dedication, intensity and commitment. We did 3 studio albums very well received by the critics, countless shows on 5 continents and a lot of stories to tell. So, first of all, I reiterate my thanks to Sepultura and the fans for everything we’ve been through.
Maybe for the band's fans it doesn't make sense at this point, but decisions needed to be made thinking about new cycles that will come. We are made of choices and they are not always easy. My departure will never erase my respect and gratitude to the band.
There is a lot to come and I hope to continue making a lot of music and art. See you on the road."
Both the band and Casagrande's posts can be viewed below. The Celebrating Life Through Death Farewell World Tour is set to kick off later this year.
