Andy Sneap calls his Judas Priest live exit 'incredibly disappointing'
The metal legends are continuing as a four-piece
Last updated 10th Jan 2022
Andy Sneap says it’s “incredibly disappointing” Judas Priest have decided to proceed as a four-piece band in the live arena, but he respects their decision.
Earlier today (10th January), Judas Priest surprised fans by releasing a statement revealing that Andy Sneap is no longer touring with them and they will perform as a four-piece when their 50 Heavy Metal Years tour resumes in Illinois on Friday 4th March.
They wrote: “We are chomping at the British Steel bit to return to world touring… celebrating 50 years of Judas Priest as an even more powerful, relentless four-piece heavy metal band - with Glenn (Tipton) coming out on stage with us here and there as before.
“Big thanks to Andy (Sneap) for all you’ve done and continuing to be in the production team for our new album… See you all soon headbangers!”
Sneap, who started touring with Judas Priest four years ago and co-produced their ‘Firepower’ album, has now released his own statement to Blabbermouth saying it wasn’t his decision to withdraw from touring.
"Rob (Halford) called me last Monday (3rd January) and said they wanted to move on as a four-piece, which I find incredibly disappointing after this amount of time but I respect his decision as they obviously have a vision how they want this to play out,” Sneap said.
"This always was a temporary situation, and like I've said before, I'll always help the band any way I can, and that applies going forward also.”
He continued: "I've been a huge fan of the band since the early '80s and it was mind-blowing to play onstage with the guys and quite frankly terrifying in the beginning at such short notice.
"We are moving forward with the new album next month and look forward to making a killer follow-up to 'Firepower'."
The current live line-up of Judas Priest consists of sole constant member Ian Hill (bass), Rob Halford (vocals), Richie Faulkner (guitar) and Scott Travis (drums).
Judas Priest are next scheduled to play the UK in May and June 2023 when they support Ozzy Osbourne on his No More Tours 2 tour.
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