Ken Susi, former guitarist of the metal band As I Lay Dying, has spoken out about his departure from the group last year. In a recent interview, Susi shared details about an incident involving vocalist Tim Lambesis that led to the band’s implosion in November 2024. Susi invited the band to stay at his house after a performance at the New England Metal and Hardcore Fest.
According to Susi, Lambesis and his then-wife Dany were having issues. Susi claims that Lambesis cornered his wife in the kitchen, spat in her face, and had an alarming episode. “This guy comes into my house in the middle of the night, corners his wife in my kitchen, spits in her face, and then retracts four or five steps back and has some type of episode,” Susi recalled.
He asked Lambesis to leave immediately after the incident. Susi had captured the events on his home security cameras. When he informed Lambesis’s ex-wife that he was quitting the band, Lambesis threatened legal action if the footage was ever released.
Lambesis claimed he had been filmed without consent. In November 2024, video leaked showing Lambesis having violent outbursts around his ex-wife. Lambesis stated he had filed a restraining order against Dany, alleging she subjected him to physical and mental abuse for three years.
They finalized their divorce later that year.
Susi discusses band split and regrets
Susi expressed regret over joining the band in 2022 despite knowing Lambesis’s history.
He wanted to give Lambesis a second chance based on their friendship. “I should have known better. But I am the type of person who would rather give somebody a second chance,” Susi explained.
However, Susi believes there is no possibility of reconciling with Lambesis now. “I don’t respect what he’s done, and I’ll never respect it. Just don’t abuse your wife in my house and put my integrity on the line.
Someone needs to say something,” Susi declared. Susi felt the band was inadvertently promoting a false redemption narrative around Lambesis. “After his incarceration, it was almost like I did kind of see this coming,” Susi remarked.
“In my opinion, he formulated this almost reality TV persona for his fanbase, portraying himself as a man of redemption or rehabilitation.”
The band ultimately realized they were ill-equipped to help Lambesis with his serious personal issues. “We were supporting somebody dealing with serious problems, and we were unaware of how serious those problems were,” Susi said. Susi emphasized his complete disassociation from Lambesis, urging fans not to support the band as long as Lambesis remains part of it.
He reflected on the strong bond with the other members who collectively decided to walk away from the unstable situation Lambesis created.
