Metal Anarchy

Guitarist Jesse Crofts (Polaris) has officially announced his departure from Windwaker. Justin Keurntjes (To Octavia) will now be taking his place.

The group said the following:

“We’ve got some exciting news – you might have seen our talented friend Justin Keurntjes playing guitar with us over the last 18 months of shows. We’re very excited to announce Justin as the new guitarist of Windwaker 👊 if you haven’t met him yet, you’ll be able to see him shred first hand all over the world very soon

Jesse has decided it’s time to move on to a new chapter in his career. We all remain incredibly close friends and we’re really proud of and excited for him. He is and always will be family, and we wish him all the best in everything he does.”

Crofts also commented:

“Alright no one cry. After much thought and reflection, the time has sadly come for me to step away from Windy. It’s bittersweet, as I will always cherish the moments we’ve shared, the music we’ve created, and all the challenges and adversity we’ve faced together. Each of you past and present has played a significant part in my journey, and for that, I truly am eternally grateful. While this is the end of one chapter, I know that new beginnings await us all and I have no doubts we’ll cross paths again. So with that, I end my turn 🫡 with love, Jesse”

He later added:

“Thanks for all the love and support around my decision to step down from Windwaker

It really wasn’t an easy decision but I knew it was time, there’s no real need to go into detail of why I left just know it was for me and my happiness as a guitarist/musician which in the end is all that matters really.

With all that said – Yes, I am still with Polaris touring full time. I need to clarify this was not a ‘leave one band for another’ it was simply how time just panned out. I love and respect my brothers in Windy for accepting my choice to move forward on my own path and I really can’t thank Polaris enough for trusting me with this role.”