Last week, it was revealed that Jon Schaffer, guitarist and chief songwriter for American power metal band Iced Earth, was among the rioters who invaded the Capitol Building. Now, the other members of Iced Earth have released a statement in which they condemn the riots — and, seemingly, in which they condemn Schaffer’s actions during them.
The other members of Iced Earth — vocalist Stu Block, drummer Brent Smedley, bassist Luke Appleton and guitarist Jake Dreyer — posted to Appleton’s Instagram account, writing, “We want to thank those of you who have sent words of support in recent days. Some of you have been concerned by our silence, which we understand. We needed some time to properly process the information and find out some facts before we made a statement.
“First and foremost we absolutely do not condone nor do we support riots or the acts of violence that the rioters were involved in on January 6th at the U.S. Capitol building. We hope that all those involved that day are brought to justice to be investigated and answer for their actions.
“With broken hearts we are sending our love and compassion to everyone who has felt pain from the events on January 6th. We are deeply saddened and our hearts go out to the families of the lives lost that day. There are really no proper words to console. Just know we are with you in your shock, grief and pain. Much love to you all.”
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Given that Schaffer is currently wanted by police for his actions during the Capitol riots certainly lends weight to the band writing that the band “hope all those involved that day are brought to justice.” However, this also seems to contradict a MetalSucks article featuring posts by Stu Block that have since been deleted, in which he openly supported and celebrated the riot at the Capitol.
More on this story as it unfolds.
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Words by Chris Krovatin
