Sodom Parts Ways with Everyone Who Isn’t Angelripper

I don’t think this is gonna make much of a difference to most Sodom fans, given that bassist/vocalist Tom Angelripper (né Serpahskewer) has always been the band’s only constant and primary songwriter, but: the Teutonic thrashers have parted ways with guitarist Bernd “Bernemann” Kost and drummer Markus “Makka” Freiwald.

Says Angelripper in a statement:

“The new year has started with a bang for all Sodom fans: vocalist/bassist Tom Angelripper 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 newchallenges,’ 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.’”

So, it sounds like Angelripper is implying that his now-former bandmates were “motivated.” Fair enough. Like I said, I don’t think this will actually impact the band’s sound much. I could be wrong. But probably not.

Thanks: C.J.