Just days after announcing his instatement and embarking upon their first tour together, South African deathcore band Vulvodynia have for now temporarily parted ways with their latest vocalist Zion Bittenbender.
Shortly after instating Bittenbender in the group, troubling allegations of sexual assault and misconduct resurfaced online. Bittenbender himself went on to deny the claims via a personal statement, while the band affirmed they were “taking this matter very seriously.”
In a follow-up statement issued yesterday, November 07th, the group have announced the departure of Bittenbender from their touring lineup as he sets out to address the allegations he faces through proper legal channels. In light of the shift in personnel, the band’s guitarist Lwandile Prusent, will be returning to lead vocal duties, a role he inhabited prior to Bittenbender‘s recent addition to the fold.
Vulvodynia‘s latest statement reads as follows:
“Following the recent allegations circulating online involving our vocalist, Zion Bittenbender, we want to provide an update regarding our touring plans.
After careful discussion, Zion will be returning home from our current tour in Asia to focus on addressing these matters through the appropriate legal channels. Handling this responsibly would be extremely difficult while continuing to tour internationally, so this decision has been
made in everyone’s best interests.Lwandile Prusent, who originally fronted Vulvodynia and has since been performing on guitar, will resume vocal duties for the remainder of 2025 to ensure our commitments are fulfilled.
We appreciate everyone’s understanding and support while this situation is handled properly and respectfully.”
