Brandon Short, the drummer for Austrian Death Machine, has officially announced his departure from the band, citing personal beliefs and mental health concerns following recent controversies linked to the group’s founding member, Tim Lambesis.
Short's decision, made public through his social media platforms, reflects his deep emotional struggle with the state of affairs within the band, particularly concerning issues tied to the still-unfolding drama involving Lambesis and his former band, As I Lay Dying. Short noted, “it is with a heavy heart” this choice has come after much contemplation and reflection.
His statement expressed his dismay at the way things have developed, particularly as the culture and environment surrounding Lambesis’ projects became increasingly problematic. "Although it feels necessary, it’s one I made after deep reflection as these events began to unravel," he said. Indeed, the situation has escalated since four members from As I Lay Dying left the band, each highlighting unspoken issues and moral dilemmas they encountered.
Once viewed as part of an inspirational legacy, Short’s previous dreams of being part of the metal scene he loved turned painful and complicated. He stated, "To walk away from something I cherished so deeply, ...is incredibly painful." He recalled how he grew up with Austrain Death Machine and as I Lay Dying as key musical influences, but now finds himself facing unexpected costs of being involved, which led to him reevaluated his own integrity and values within the band.
Even more troubling, Short referenced broken promises within the band culture. He lamented, “The repeated promises, the endless cycles of ‘I’ll do Better’—words once full of hope turned to illusions.” It’s clear this cyclical experience has taken its toll, complicate his personal mental health and sense of self.
Short continued, emphasizing the challenge of finding peace amid such turmoil, and the emotional toll this situation has taken on his life. During his time with Austrian Death Machine, he felt immense pride and relation to the fan base, and he thanked everyone who enjoyed his work on their most recent album, Quad Brutal, released earlier this year. “Thank you for being part of this incredible experience,” he expressed to his supporters, hoping for brighter days and new opportunities to create music again.
Turning the focus toward Lambesis, he cast light on the controversy surrounding him. Lambesis, who made headlines several years ago for his involvement in a murder-for-hire plot against his then-wife, has been without bandmates after multiple departures. Offering no detailed explanation for their exits, the former members, including guitarist Phil Sgrosso and bassist/vocalist Ryan Neff, highlighted concerns over creating unhealthy environments and moral decisions within the band. Sgrosso proclaimed recently, "Recent actions have shown as I Lay Dying no longer offers a healthy or safe environment for anyone involved.”
Short’s resignation from Austrian Death Machine has become another layer to the growing drama, leading many to speculate about the internal struggles faced by the musicians involved with Lambesis’ projects. He fully acknowledged how his sense of integrity was shortly compromised, expressing his disbelief at witnessing personal strains and professional undercurrents he could no longer support.
Visibly shaken by the events, Short reflected on both the bright sides and heavy burdens aligned with his musical career, giving insight on how deeply intertwined his personal life has become with his role within the band. "My integrity and character have been called to question, they have been affected. It's impacting my mental health to such an extent I can no longer ignore,” he indicated.
Challenges continue to surround Lambesis as he attempts to rebuild as I Lay Dying for the next chapter. Despite confidence he shared about future projects and potential shows, the shadow of past actions weighs heavily. Further whispers of rumors and heightening tensions surround Lambesis, complicate public perception and his reputation within the metal scene.
This turbulent saga is reflective of broader conversations happening within the heavy metal community, as fans and artists alike navigate the boundaries of personal ethics and professional collaboration. For Short, the decision to part ways signifies amplified awareness of mental health and accountability within boy-bands and artistic circles.
Reflecting after his announcement, the bassist plans to pursue new horizons musically and personally, remaining optimistic about future endeavors. “Here’s to embracing new adventures and creating even more music,” Short concluded, expressing hope and aspiration for brighter days. Clearly, Short’s choice reflects more than just the act of leaving; it symbolizes the growing recognition of the need for safe and supportive creative environments.
His fans now wait with bated breath, intrigued to see what new avenues of creativity Short will explore and how the greater narrative surrounding Austrian Death Machine and as I Lay Dying will continue to evolve. With each departing member adding to the ambiguity, it remains to be seen where Lambesis and his musical ventures will head next.
