Vicious Rumors’ longtime drummer Larry Howe has announced his departure from the band, citing cancel culture as the reason for his exit in a statement shared on Facebook.
The band first announced Howe’s resignation, explaining the circumstances that led to his departure and their plans moving forward.
“Larry Howe has announced he’s stepping down from Vicious Rumors. We tried to save our musical bond but all we got in return was canceled shows, lost tours and a fight we had nothing to do with,” the band stated. “After paying such a high price over one individual person’s views we accept his resignation. Although we made some timeless albums, it’s time to get back to the music.”
The band confirmed their upcoming tour plans despite the lineup change.
“The European Asylum Tour, May 9th – June 20 is 100% confirmed, We welcome a new chapter, a new drummer starting tomorrow!” they continued.
Howe then issued his own separate statement addressing his departure directly.
“Cancel culture wins again. I will no longer be drumming for Vicious Rumors (for the foreseeable future),” Howe said. “Thank you for your attention to this matter.”
In a follow-up edit, Howe clarified his position and expressed concern for his former bandmates.
“Edit note; it’s not the other band guys who are brainwashed… please don’t accuse them!! my heart goes out to them and I’m sorry this is affecting them,” he explained. “It’s just the music industry is saturated with leftist ideologues who capitulate to globalism and I can’t be a part of that! The cat is out of the bag for me!”
Howe’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Vicious Rumors’ history. His tenure with the band spans nearly four decades of metal music.
Wikipedia reported that Howe first joined Vicious Rumors in 1985, just in time to record the band’s debut album “Soldiers of the Night.” This power metal classic helped establish the band’s worldwide reputation and marked the beginning of Howe’s long association with the group. The album became a cornerstone of the band’s catalog and solidified their place in the metal scene.
The recent split appears to stem from ongoing tensions over political differences that have affected the band’s touring opportunities. Metal Injection noted that the band stated Howe’s political views led to lost European bookings, forcing the split after years of disagreement. This situation created a challenging dynamic for the remaining band members who found themselves caught between personal loyalty and professional obligations.
Metal Underground documented that Vicious Rumors are an American power metal band originally formed in 1979 in the San Francisco Bay Area. The band has maintained a presence in the metal scene for over four decades. Howe served as a key member for the majority of that time. His drumming contributions helped shape the band’s sound through multiple albums and countless live performances.
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure, Howe’s impact on Vicious Rumors’ legacy remains significant. His nearly 40-year tenure with the band represents one of the longest drummer-band relationships in metal music. The band will continue with their planned European tour in May with a new drummer, marking the beginning of a new era for the veteran metal act.
