Ex-Morbid Angel drummer Pete Sandoval has publicly shared his recent autism diagnosis. He opened up about a lifelong condition that has now been properly identified. The drummer made this revelation in a detailed statement posted on Instagram.
In his statement, Sandoval explained the journey to his diagnosis and how it has provided clarity about his lifelong experiences.
“After many years of confusion and misdiagnosis, I’ve finally been properly diagnosed as autistic (Level 1) ADOS-2 module 4 (and some other tests),” Sandoval said. “This has been part of who I am since childhood, even though for a long time I didn’t have the words or understanding for it.”
The drummer went on to describe how autism has affected various aspects of his life and interactions.
“Over the years, this has affected how I communicate, how I process sound, and how I interact with people — sometimes in ways that may have seemed confusing, distant, or misunderstood,” he continued. “It was never about not caring, not listening, or not wanting to connect.”
Sandoval, now 61, expressed how receiving this diagnosis has brought him peace and self-understanding.
“Now, at 61 having clarity has brought a lot of peace. It explains so much — and it’s allowed me to better understand myself instead of fighting it,” he said. “I’m still here, still playing, still creating, still grateful — after back surgery, after life challenges, and now with a better understanding of my own mind.”
The drummer concluded his statement by expressing hope that sharing his experience might help others.
“If sharing this helps even one person feel less alone or more patient with themselves or others, then it’s worth it,” he said. “Thank you for the love and support through the years.”
Sandoval’s revelation comes from a musician who has been a defining force in extreme metal for decades. Wikipedia reported that Pete Sandoval was born on May 21, 1964, in El Salvador. He became one of the most influential drummers in death metal history through his work with Morbid Angel, Terrorizer, and later I Am Morbid.
The drummer’s mention of how autism affects his sound processing takes on new significance given his legendary status in the metal community. Encyclopaedia Metallum noted that Pete “Commando” Sandoval is widely regarded as “the father of the blast beat” and one of the fastest drummers in the death metal scene. His innovative drumming techniques helped shape the entire genre of extreme metal.
Sandoval’s departure from Morbid Angel in 2013 was initially attributed to health issues following back surgery. Discover Walks documented that as the former drummer of Morbid Angel, Sandoval played a pivotal role in shaping the death metal genre through his exceptional speed, precision, and innovative techniques. His recovery from surgery took longer than expected. This led to his eventual departure from the band.
Following his time with Morbid Angel, Sandoval formed I Am Morbid to continue performing the classic material that helped define death metal. Drummer World revealed that the former Morbid Angel drummer has continued to discuss the growth of death metal and his lasting legacy through his work with I Am Morbid. He maintains his connection to the genre he helped create.
His openness about his autism diagnosis adds another layer to understanding one of metal’s most influential figures. It shows how neurodiversity can contribute to artistic innovation and creativity in unexpected ways.
