DEREK RYDQUIST ON BEING OUT OF THE FACELESS: “I THINK YOU’RE ONTO SOMETHING HERE”

So yesterday we learned that vocalist Derek Rydquist is not currently touring Europe with The Faceless, who seem to have recruited a replacement. What’s not clear is who that replacement is, and whether or not he’s a permanent addition to the group’s ranks, or is just filling in while Rydquist deals with visa issues, or family issues, or whatever other issues sometimes prevent musicians from flying overseas with their band. And while it looks like fans are asking “What the dilly, yo?” on The Faceless’ Facelessbook page, answers have yet to be forthcoming.

But the Bob Woodward to my Carl Bernstein, Metal Injection‘s Rob Pasbani, took the baton of great metal journalism and e-mailed Mr. Rydquist directly to get an update. Rydquist’s response?

“I don’t think I’m prepared or of liberty to discuss my current involvement in The Faceless, but I think you’re on to something here. I’m definitely not in Europe with them right now, but based on the video I just watched on Metalsucks, the guy they have out there right now is doing an awesome job.”

Well, it’s good to know he’s definitely not in Europe with them. It’s not like there’s a video of the band performing with a different vocalist or something like that.

Sigh.

In all seriousness, this sounds to me like Rydquist is out of the band, not just taking a leave of absence or some “me time” or whatever. I mean, “I think you’re onto something here” might as well be a “yes,” right? So… start getting used to that news now.

Of course, we still have no idea who this new singer is. Let the sleuthin’ continue!

-AR