Drummer Eric Morotti has officially parted ways with New York death metal veterans SUFFOCATION after nearly a decade behind the kit, delivering a blunt and highly critical explanation for his exit.
Morotti first hinted at the split via an Instagram Story posted on April 10th, writing: “Thanks for the birthday wishes. My gift to myself is walking away from a toxic group, and knowing my worth. I’m choosing me from now on, I will be not teaming with addicts anymore.
“Peace and love, there’s a lot in store for me, keep your eyes peeled!”
He soon followed up with a more detailed statement on his Instagram, confirming that his comments were directed at Suffocation and expanding on his reasons for leaving: “There comes a point in your life where you pick YOU! You must choose to change, evolve, or be stuck in the same routines forever. Today. On my. Birthday. I have chosen to step away from @suffocationofficial to prolong my health, myself. My integrity. I will not work with toxic. Abusive drug addicts. Let alone allow them to boss me around. I’ve been belittled and stepped all over for too long.
“That being said. I’ve been having an absolute BLAST with @sanguisugaboggband and have been shown what it’s like to be part of real FAMILY,” he continued. “no egos, no power trips. Just bros that love music and being together. Catch me on tour with them still on the @lambofgod tour around the USA!! I love you all, thank you very much to all my fans for supporting me over the years, keep your eyes open for what’s next!!”
Despite his departure from SUFFOCATION, Morotti remains active with Ohio death metal outfit SANGUISUGABOGG and is also involved in the supergroup ABLATION. However, his future with ABLATION could raise questions, as the lineup also includes SUFFOCATION bassist Derek Boyer, while former SUFFOCATION vocalist Frank Mullen appears on the group’s upcoming debut EP.
Morotti had been a member of SUFFOCATION since 2016, contributing to the band’s modern era, while Boyer has held down bass duties since 2004.
At the time of writing, SUFFOCATION have not publicly addressed Morotti’s allegations. However, they have already announced a temporary replacement for upcoming shows, confirming that John Longstreth of ORIGIN will handle drumming duties for their Spring 2026 North American run.
In a statement released prior to Morotti’s posts, the band shared: “SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT! For our upcoming shows in Spring 2026 including support to Cradle of Filth, Welcome to Rockville and Sonic Temple we are beyond excited to announce that legendary drummer John Longstreth (Origin) will be joining us behind the drums as a very SPECIAL GUEST!
“Known for his incredible speed, precision, and groundbreaking work in extreme metal, John will be the perfect fit to SUFFOCATION‘s energy making this something you do NOT want to miss!”
The tour will see SUFFOCATION performing across North America, including appearances alongside CRADLE OF FILTH, festival stops at Welcome to Rockville and Sonic Temple, as well as select dates with SEPULTURA.
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