‘90s Metal Band Announces Departure of Key Member for Personal Reasons

Exhorder, the American heavy metal band, delivered a surprising announcement to fans ahead of their highly anticipated U.S. tour.

Amid the growing excitement, the four-member band revealed a shift in their lineup as drummer Sasha Horn has exited the group.

Following his eight years with Exhorder, the veteran heavy metal drummer is taking a break to focus on his personal life.

In an official statement shared on their official Instagram, they reassured fans that everything is still on track, especially the scheduled activities in the coming months, despite major changes.

Following Horn’s departure, the band announced that Corey Pierce from New Jersey metalcore band God Forbid will step in as their touring drummer.

“This decision does not impact our touring plans in any way, as we have been fortunate enough to secure the help of God Forbid legend, Corey Pierce. Corey will join us on the Tour of Unsound Minds this coming month, so we are in good hands! We are excited to jam with Corey and to bring our live show back to the eastern states for the first time in 2026,” the caption reads.

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The post also includes Horn’s message to fans who have supported him and the band for nearly a decade.

According to him, the decision was made to prioritize his time with family, pursue further education and personal creative endeavors.

“After eight and a half years, two albums and countless touring cycles, it is time for me to permanently step away from my position at Exhorder. All things have come to that split in the path. Best wishes to the guys moving forward. As for myself, I am in search of more time with family, continuing education and a focus on my own personal creative endeavors. So much love to all of my fans, you mean the world to me. I shall see you again when I’m back out in it.

This is not a farewell, this is a time-out,” he said.

As the band entered a new phase, they shared plans to shift their energy toward creating their next album and scouting for a new drummer.

“As we have finally completed a two-year touring cycle of Defectum Omnium, our canvas is clear and we are excited about following up with our fifth album’s writing process. The search for a permanent drummer is underway. All of our best to Sasha in his journey and we thank him for the time, contributions and sacrifices he made alongside us for all of these years. Best of luck and nothing but love from us moving forward. Jason, Pat and Kyle,” the statement says.

The post sparked a wave of support from fans, many of whom wished Horn well and praised the band’s decision to invite the God Forbid legend.

“Thanks, Sasha, but great choice for a tour replacement,” one wrote.

“Great fit! Corey rules,” a fan echoed.

“Wishing the best to Sasha!!” a follower said.

“Thanks for 8 years of drumming insanity, Sasha. All the best for the future. Keep rockin’” a commenter added.

Earlier this month, Exhorder announced their upcoming U.S. spring tour with Skinlab.

Dubbed as The Tour Of Unsound Minds, the band will hit the road throughout April, kicking off in West Virginia and wrapping up in Michigan.

March 2: Morgantown, WV @ 123 Pleasant Street
March 3: Rochester, NY @ Montage Music Hall
March 4: Albany, NY @ Empire
March 5: Portland, ME @ Genos Rock Club
March 6: Providence, RI @ Alchemy
March 7: Manchester, NH @ Jewell
March 8: Hamden, CT @ Space Ballroom
March 9: Amityville, NY @ AMH
March 10: Harrisburg, PA @ Capital City Music Hall
March 11: Manalapan, NJ @ Locals
March 12: Chesapeake, VA @ Riffhouse
March 13: Atlanta, GA @ 529
March 14: Raleigh, NC @ Chapel Of Bones
March 15: Piedmont, SC @ Tribbles
March 16: Chattanooga, TN @ BoneBar
March 17: Dunbar, WV @ Live At The Shop
March 18: Chicago, IL @ Reggie’s
March 19: Cadillac, MI @ The Venue

Related: ’90s Metal Band Announces North America Tour for the First Time in 18 Years