Atreyu and vocalist Alex Varkatzas part ways following departure rumors

On Wednesday, Atreyu announced the departure of vocalist Alex Varkatzas.

The news comes just one month after rumors emerged that Varkatzas was leaving the group to pursue other projects.

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Back in August, news broke that Varkatzas has reportedly left Atreyu. According to the reports, drummer and co-vocalist Brandon Saller was stepping in to handle vocal duties. At the time, however, no official statement had been made by the band.

Soon after the rumors emerged, Varkatzas shared a cryptic Instagram that fans believed confirmed he wasn’t actually leaving Atreyu. He posted the lyrics to Stone Temple Pilots‘ “Trippin’ On A Hole In A Paper Heart” along with the hashtag #fakenews.

He also quoted the lyrics “I’m not dead and I’m not for sale” in the caption. This post seemingly confirmed that the rumors were false.

Now, Atreyu have officially confirmed they are parting ways with Varkatzas. The band took to social media on Sept. 30 to share a statement with fans.

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“We have been a band for over 20 years now,” Atreyu say. “Lived our dreams together as friends and as brothers. We traveled the world doing what we love, and have been fortunate enough to play music for such an incredible fan base that provides us with the opportunity to share our greatest moments with them.”

According to Atreyu, Varkatzas is leaving to work on other projects. Despite his departure, the band and the vocalist are not disappearing from music.

“Now a time of change has come for all of us. Alex Varkatzas is sailing off on a ship of his own, and will part ways with Atreyu. He will not disappear, and neither will Atreyu. There’s nothing but love and respect for each other, and we can’t wait to see what he will come up with next. Stay tuned for his upcoming projects and we all wish him success and fulfillment with all his future endeavors. Atreyu’s next adventure is among us. We love you, we’ll see you shortly.”

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Varkatzas also shared a message regarding his departure on Sept. 30. In the video, he says “there are no words” to describe his gratitude to fans who have supported him over the years.

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“After 20 rewarding years of creating music with Atreyu, the band and I are parting ways,” his statement says. “I am forever thankful for the memories, experiences, and friendships made along the way. Thank you to all of the friends and fans. I have lots of new music and art to share with you in the future. With love and respect.”

Following the departure rumors back in August, Varkatzas hinted that he has other projects in the works. In the video, he said that he has “so much creative energy” and is looking to start something new.

Earlier this year, Atreyu revealed that they are recording new musicblink-182‘s Mark Hoppus recently joined the band in the studio back in January. Atreyu’s last full-length album In Our Wake was released in 2018. Then, in 2019, the band released a deluxe edition of In Our Wake featuring both new and acoustic tracks.

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What are your thoughts on Alex Varkatzas leaving Atreyu? Let us know in the comments below.