Iced Earth's vocalist and bassist have left the band

Stu Block and Luke Appleton have announced that they have quit Iced Earth.

The vocalist and bassist respectively shared separate statements regarding their departures from the group, with Luke simply writing, "In response to recent events and circumstances, I have notified Iced Earth’s management and Jon [Schaffer, guitarist] that I will be resigning as the Iced Earth bassist with immediate effect. I would like to thank everyone who has sent me their support and love during this difficult time. Thank you!!!"

Stu, meanwhile, had slightly more to say: "Well, there are times and events when you have to take stock and re-evaluate your life, work, and trajectory for the future," he wrote on Facebook. "That being said I have informed Jon and his current management that I must announce my resignation from Iced Earth with immediate effect.

Read this: Jon Schaffer’s Iced Earth bandmates: We do not condone pro-Trump Capitol riots

"Before I made any personal decision I needed the last few weeks to process the situation as well as respect others in our camp processing the situation. I thank you all very much for respecting this. It’s the best decision in many ways for my personal / professional growth going forward. Time to move on, heal and prosper. Much love and respect to you all. Don’t fret! Stay tuned for some exciting things to come! Time to embark upon a new chapter. Be good to each other."

The Florida metallers hit headlines last month after bandmate Jon Schaffer was photographed at January 6’s protest in Washington in which supporters of Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol. The musician turned himself in to the FBI later that month, and is facing six federal charges.

See Stu and Luke's statements below:

Read this: ​“Fuck these traitors!” The rock and metal world reacts to U.S. Capitol riots