The guitarist is leaving the band due to personal issues involving his business, Bare Knuckle Pickups, and his close friend's illness. The band, which has gone through many lineup changes over the years, will carry on and find a new guitarist.
Speaking exclusively to Blabbermouth, Jon Schaffer said, amongst other things, "I know this lineup situation has become a familiar issue with Iced Earth, but please realize that it will have little or no effect at all on our plans, recording, touring and otherwise. The core is solid, focused and ready to kick some serious ass. As has been the case since the first Iced Earth CD I have played every rhythm and lead, every clean and acoustic guitar track that you've heard, with exception of the solos, and I even did a few of those in the old days. This will not cause any delay of the recording or any shows to be canceled so don't worry about a thing, we're right on track as planned"
He expressed heartfelt concern for Tim Mills, as well as his friend and co-worker, who has been diagnosed with a terminal form of cancer. Additionally, Jon said the band would provide an update about the open guitar spot "in the near future."
