Moody admits to relapse into alcohol abuse
Five Finger Death Punch released a series of statements today clarifying the band's current situation. Despite a tense show in Tilburg this week, they announced a tour with In Flames. At the show, vocalist Ivan Moody announced his departure from the band , and the group seemed to have a falling out. The following day, the band released a statement saying they would proceed with a new tour, but without specifying whether Moody was part of the plan.
Today the band clarified the situation and the lead singer apologized to the fans, saying that he had relapsed in his recovery from alcoholism
“I’m ashamed to admit that I relapsed. I was already on the brink before our performance in Tilburg, and although many of the show’s problems were beyond my control, the shame of not being able to deliver what I should have. It wouldn’t be fair to my bandmates or the fans if I continued to perform in my current condition. One of the worst parts of addiction is the loneliness you feel, so having the support of my band and all the fans is what motivates me to keep going. I am committed to getting better so that I can get back on stage as soon as possible.”.
The band also expressed support for the vocalist:
“As a band, we are committed to supporting Ivan’s journey to recovery. We are shocked and saddened, like everyone else, to see our brother suffer. Almost everyone in the world knows someone who suffers from addiction and can understand how difficult it is to watch the self-destruction of someone you care about. Five Finger Death Punch fully intends to play the remaining tour dates. Our band is bigger than one member.”
The band announced that Bad Wolves vocalist Tommy Vext will be the touring vocalist until Ivan Moody recovers.