Ion Vein part ways with long-time vocalist, seek replacement

[Chris Lotesto]

Band founder, Chris Lotesto, issued the following statement:

It’s with a very heavy heart that I am announcing our decision to part ways
with long-time Ion Vein vocalist and friend, Russ Klimczak. Russ has been
an integral part of Ion Vein, and one of my best friends, for the past 10
years so as you can imagine, this has not been an easy thing. The decision
is strictly a musical one and not personal in the least.

Ion Vein has been continually evolving musically over the past 10 years and
we have finally reached a point to where Russ’ vocal style and approach is
just not working with the music any longer. This has been a very difficult
time for Brian, Chuck and I as we had to put our friendship with Russ aside
and look out for the best interest of the band.

We wish Russ nothing but the best and I would like to personally thank him
for sticking it out with me from the very beginning, through thick and
thin. We’ve accomplished a lot together so it’s hard to say goodbye to
this chapter in the book of Ion Vein.

With that being said, we are also looking forward to the next chapter in
the Ion Vein story and will begin our search for a new vocalist immediately
while we continue to track the new album with Neil Kernon. We are looking
for an experienced, multi-dimensional singer, with a lot of attitude, drive
and stage presence. If you think you have what it takes to help us take
things to the next level, please email a resume and sound clips to
mail at ionvein.com. You can also send email there if you would like to
get in touch with Russ and I will make sure he gets it.

***
Thanks for your support!
Chris, Chuck and Brian

 

[Matt Crooks]

Good luck to IV and Russ...

 

[MetalNations]

Wow. Good luck guys.

 

[Jasonic]

Very shocking news.......
Best of luck to Russ and to ION VEIN in the hunt for a replacement.

Russ always had a great stage presence, and he will be missed.
The new material slayed live.

 

[prncsslime]

All I can say is........ NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!
How sad......too much change...my brain is melting!!! First Scott, then Robin, and now Russ.
All the best to Russ!! Great guy, FANTASTIC vocals, he will surely be missed.
This question may not be answered, but what kind of vocals are you leaning toward Chris? Is it still going to be melodic?
Anyway, good luck in finding the sound you are looking for!!
~Annie

 

[METALDUDE]

Are you still opening for Kamelot on the 30th of September. Also I am from the S/W burbs. What's a chance at a phone convo. I may be interested. Respond I will submit an e-mail that you could give me direct contact to. Best of Luck.

 

[ENERTIA_Joe]

Best wishes to IV & Russ!

Joe

 

[BalanceofPower]

Fuck this sucks major balls. I've always thought Russ was an amazing vocalist, and an even better front man. I really hope things go well on both ends. I'm really sorry to see Russ go.

P.S. will Russ' vocals be used on this new CD, or will you guys find a replacement to do the album?

 

[Eyesore]

Russ was a great vocalist, I'm sad to see him go, but it seems like a well thought out decision. Gotta trust in that, you know?

I look forward to the next album either way.

 

[Chris Lotesto]

Thanks all for the kind words, we appreciate it!

Vito: We are looking for a new vocalist to track the album.....

Metaldude: Unless we find a vocalist, we won't be doing the Kamelot
show. If you're interested, send an email to mail at ionvein dot com

 

[METALDUDE]

Thanks Chris. I sent you guys an e-mail. If I do not hear from you ..best of luck. If you get a singer by then I hope to see you guys up there at the KAMELOT gig. I will be there. Take it easy

 

[METALDUDE]

Hey Chris!!! Just in case you looked here first,I sent you an e-mail. Thanks! Take it easy.