Eloy Casagrande Left Sepultura to Focus on “New Cycles That Will Come”
Earlier this week, Sepultura announced a major shakeup in their roster with the reveal that long-time drummer Eloy Casagrande had exited the Brazilian group. At the time, the only perspective we had was the band’s.
Thanks to a recent social media post, we now know Casagrande’s side of the story after he provided a lengthy — albeit slightly cryptic — statement for why he left Sepultura.
“I would like to announce my departure from Sepultura. Being part of the biggest Brazilian metal band was one of the best experiences of my life. I just want to thank the band and crew members.
“It was a story of almost 13 years, in which I had the opportunity to learn and contribute with every song, show and recording. These were years of great dedication, intensity and commitment. We did 3 studio albums very well received by the critics, countless shows on 5 continents and a lot of stories to tell. So, first of all, I reiterate my thanks to Sepultura and the fans for everything we’ve been through.
“Maybe for the band’s fans it doesn’t make sense at this point, but decisions needed to be made thinking about new cycles that will come. We are made of choices and they are not always easy. My departure will never erase my respect and gratitude to the band.
“There is a lot to come and I hope to continue making a lot of music and art. See you on the road.”
Though most of his statement is all well and good, what exactly does he mean by “new cycles that will come”? Does that mean Casagrande in Slipknot is confirmed?!?! (Just kidding, that’s not been confirmed.)
News of his departure from the band came just a couple months before Sepultura was supposed to embark on their farewell world tour. With the dates coming up, the band has since pivoted by hiring Suicidal Tendencies drummer Greyson Nekrutman to fill in for the band’s final dates.
When the announcement was made that Casagrande was out of the band, Sepultura sounded like they were not thrilled about the drummer’s decision, saying he opted to “abandon everything related to Sepultura” instead of stick it out until the end.
“Beginning of December the group clearly defined the intention at the announcement, it is a ‘conscious and planned death.’ As poetic as it sounds, a tour of this magnitude took nearly of year of preparing and planning which would require a lot commitment, ethics and loyalty to their fans, as well as respecting for the band’s history – something that is a clear priority to Andreas Kisser, Derrick Green and Paulo Xisto.
“However, on February 6th a few days prior to the first rehearsal, drummer Eloy Casagrande informed the band that he was leaving Sepultura to pursue a career in another project. The band were taken by surprise, without prior warning, he immediately left the band, abandoning everything related to Sepultura.
We’ll have to wait and see what happens next for Casagrande… and if the internet’s right about where he’s headed.
