01/08/2018 23:19

Sodom

Sodom split with guitarist & drummer; announced shows will happen

The new year has started with a bang for all Sodom fans: vocalist/bassist Thomas "Tom Angelripper" Such has split up with guitarist Bernd "Bernemann" Kost and drummer Markus "Makka" Freiwald.

"After much thought and reflection I have decided on this difficult step to pave the way for new challenges," explains Tom. "Sodom have always lived off the commitment and passion of everybody involved. Makka was part of the band for almost eight years, Bernemann even for more than twenty. To obviate a possible routine setting in which would make it impossible to continue our creative work optimally, I would like to start all over again with fresh and hungry musicians. At the same time I would like to say thank you to Bernemann and Makka for many successful years in which we performed fantastic shows and released a number of real metal manifestos."

Irrespective of this spectacular line-up change, all scheduled Sodom shows will take place from April 2018 as announced. Tom is set to introduce his new comrades-in-arms at the Full Metal Mountain. Whether Sodom will continue to operate as a trio or perhaps become a quartet in future remains unclear. Tom: "I haven't really made up my mind in this respect, I'm open to all options. I will now install the band's new foundation pillars and look around for new musicians. One thing is already clear: Sodom will become even stronger!"

Together with his new line-up, Tom wants to start working on the upcoming album – to be released on Steamhammer/SPV – as soon as possible. Tom: "SPV also look forward to our future collaboration and expect a totally motivated band."

Here is the message from Bernemann Kost and Markus Freiwald:

"Sodom break up!

Tom has already pointed it out in his statement that in fact we have slightly drifted apart from each other. Indeed our conceptions of respect and workload diverged even further. Also tour offers neglected by Tom disappointed us.
After its overwhelming reactions we were totally looking forward to creating a successor to “Decision Day” and have already recorded lots of song ideas. Unfortunately Tom did not share our enthusiasm, he terminated his cooperation with us via WhatsApp even without listening to any of the new material.
Of course it is not easy for us to leave Sodom - the band that have become such a huge part of our lives and that we totally identify with. But, we will not stop doing what we love - together we will found a new band and we will see a way forward.
Within our hearts we will remain Sodom even if Tom is not with us any longer.

...And now a few words to you. Words from musicians to their friends and families. Since we have already received tons of nice and encouraging words from all of you we want to take the opportunity to say thank you to each one of you.
Everybody who saw us during the past couple of years also saw that we were 100% into what we were doing and that our behaviour had always been as authentic as your reactions had been genuine and filled with affection. Your feedback throughout all those years and your uplifting words now make us feel proud.
This is all we can ask for - thank you so much!

Bernemann & Makka"

Further, Thomas Such added:

"There are some turbulent days behind me, my family and my true friends. Aside from the unspeakable and absurd "Shitstorm" against my person and my faithful companions (my God, we laughed...) there were also countless voices that have confirmed me in my actions, even if only me and my personal The real reasons for my decisions, which I have not made easy for myself.
The foundations for this band, which means my whole life, will be re-installed; on a solid and forward-looking I think I can find more information about this next week.
I thank everyone who supported my decision for their loyalty. I can only whisper to everyone else: " head up,
Baby... will be " ;)))
See you soon
TOM"

(source: Sodom / Bernemann Kost)