Godsmack have collectively issued a statement regarding the newly confirmed departure of their long-time guitarist/vocalist Tony Rombola and drummer Shannon Larkin. That duo confirmed they exited the band late last year, announcing the news in a video statement issued on social media earlier this week.
The band themselves have since taken to touring Europe with guitarist Sam Bam Koltun (Dorothy, Faster Pussycat, etc.) and drummer Will Hunt (Evanescence) as live fill-ins. Speaking via social media this afternoon, April 02nd, Godsmack had the following to say of this change in personnel:
“To our dearest friends and fans,
We send this message to all of you to share some bittersweet news with you regarding a significant change in our journey together. After almost 3 incredible decades, two of our most cherished members, Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin have decided to retire from the band permanently, on good terms, but for no other reason than to fulfill their desire to live a more simple and quiet life away from touring.
This decision was not made lightly. Tony and Shannon have been such a big part of our history, bringing their unique talents, creativity, and passion that have shaped our music and our message. Together, we have experienced countless, unforgettable moments and heartfelt interactions with fans like you around the world. We are immensely grateful for every memory we’ve created together.
Their departure marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new and exciting possibilities. We want to assure you that Shannon and Tony will always be part of our family, and their contributions will forever echo in our music. We respect their decisions and support them wholeheartedly as they pursue their own individual paths.
Robbie and I are also excited to explore new directions, and although we have not made any permanent decisions about who may replace Tony and Shannon, we will be continuing this journey together, and we look forward to sharing the decisions we make with all of you as they happen.
In the meantime, some of you may have heard, drummer Will Hunt of Evanescence, along with guitarist Sam Koltun of Dorothy are filling in for Shannon and Tony as we honor and complete our current European dates.
Thank you for your unwavering support over the years. We are grateful to have you by our side as we navigate this transition.
Let’s celebrate the memories we’ve made together while we all look forward to our future together.
With love and respect,
Sully, Robbie, Tony, Shannon“
In an interesting wrinkle largely glossed over, Larkin‘s exit statement revealed that he and Rombola are “already making new music.” Back in 2022, Godsmack decided to transition to a legacy band, opting to solely tour instead of pen further new songs.
Godsmack‘s decision to return to Europe this year was also somewhat surprising, given their past struggles to turn a profit in Europe. Their ongoing run finds them out with P.O.D. and Drowning Pool:
04/03 Munich, GER – Zenith
04/04 Berlin, GER – Columbiahalle
04/05 Aschaffenburg, GER – Stadthalle
04/07 London, UK – Eventim Apollo
04/09 Bruxelles, BEL – Forest National
04/11 Hamburg, GER – Inselparkhalle
04/12 Oberhausen, GER – Turbinenhalle
