Everytime I Die drummer calls it quits

July 1, 9:29 PMBuffalo Music ExaminerJillian Smolinski

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Every Time I Die / Credit: Epitaph Records

Drummer Mike "Ratboy" Novak has parted ways with Buffalo's own Every Time I Die due to "personal conflicts" in an "uncomfortable, unhealthy situation."

Novak issued the following statement to online metal forum Lambgoat on Monday, June 29:

"I have officially quit Every Time I Die due to personal conflicts. I feel like I'm getting myself out of an uncomfortable, unhealthy situation, and it's for the best for everyone, and I'm ready to move on with my life. I still plan to play and be involved in music and am looking for a new project to pursue. This is a new exciting chapter in my life and hope anyone who has enjoyed me as a person/drummer in this band for the last 11 years, sticks with me for whatever endeavor the future brings me. Thanks to all the ETID fans throughout the years."

The remaining members (Keith Buckley, Jordan Buckley, Andy Williams and Josh Newton) issued the following statement in response to Novak's exit:

"After 11 years of being involved with this band, Mike 'Ratboy' Novak has indeed decided to quit Every Time I Die. Yesterday morning we received text messages that he wasn't going to continue anymore. 15 years ago, when someone left their band, they would get drunk, fight their friends, and we'd learn about it from Kurt Loder at 10 minutes before the hour. Today it's in a text messages and you guys find out on a messageboard. To be honest, it was something we have seen coming for some time now, but were uncertain as to exactly when or how it was going to happen because, as everyone who has ever met him knows, his communication skills leave much to be desired. That being said, he simply didn't feel the need to talk to us about any problem he was having or discomfort he was experiencing with any situation in particular. For the past year it has felt like we were playing with a drum machine or a pre recorded backing track. He completely shut off communication with us, contributing only to the band when onstage and opting to take no part in any social activity while on tour or to be present for the filming of our upcoming DVD. Whatever his reasons were, he simply was not a part of us anymore mentally or emotionally.

"So now, us at Every Time I Die are confronted with a small hurdle which we will no doubt jump in order to become a new version of the killing machine we've always been. The person that fills the vacant shoes Ratboy left is going to be more hungry and more intense and bring a renewed energy to the stage, not simply be able learn the songs and repeat them for a half hour every night. Someone that doesn't take being in a band for granted and wants to destroy everyone and every thing sonically. Someone that can appreciate the amazing people we surround ourselves with and the opportunities we've been given. With our new record 'The New Junk Aesthetic' on the verge of blowing the earth a huge gaping asshole, we couldn't be happier that our insecurities and personal conflicts are in the past. and if you don't believe us, just check out our myspace 'mood.' Cannot wait to see you all again."

Every Time I Die's next album is titled New Junk Aesthetic and is set to be released on September 15, 2009. New Junk Aesthetic will be the band's first release on Epitaph Records. A track from the upcoming album has been released for free download at hurley.com

For more information: Lambgoat, Every Time I Die