Metal Anarchy

Singer Krista Shipperbottom and drummer Cory Hofing have announced their departures from Lutharo. The duo made the decision after Shipperbottom “was pushed to the limit by a long-term pattern of toxic and harmful behavior.”

Shipperbottom said the following:

“KRISTA’S EXIT STATEMENT:

Well friends, I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing a statement like this. For a person who has always relied on the perfect painting of words to create connection and understanding between myself and others, I am truly at a loss for them today.

I’m also well aware that not a single message I type out into a paragraph on the internet will ever bring justice to or encapsulate exactly how much damage has been done in the last 12 years. With that, it is with an absolute hole in my heart that I announce my departure as lead vocalist of Lutharo.

This was without a doubt the most gut-wrenching and terrifying decision I have ever had to make. Not once in over a decade did quitting ever cross my mind. In fact, I would constantly state, ‘You’ll have to take me out in a body bag from this band.’ However, at this point I believe my mental health and the truth are far more important than anything else.

I know there may be attempts to present a “clean” or generic version of why I left, but I refuse to go silently. I want the world to understand that I was pushed to my limit by a long-term pattern of toxic and harmful behavior from one individual. While I will not name this person, I believe many can read between the lines based on past experiences and patterns that have already circulated within the industry.

I am speaking out not out of spite, but out of a desire to protect others. If my story can serve as a warning, then I hope it gives future collaborators the awareness I wish I had. To those who choose to remain by his side, I truly hope one day you choose yourselves and your well-being.

I know how difficult it is to walk away—but I also know the strength it takes to finally do so. I would never abandon something that has brought such purpose to my life if I didn’t feel as though I was abandoning myself in the process. I realize that this statement holds a ton of weight, but I don’t think I could live with myself or fully walk away from something that I was so passionate about without speaking my truth.

With all of that behind me now I just want to give an insanely huge thank you to all the fans/friends who have supported myself and the band over the years. Without you there’s no way I could have kept fighting or accomplished the incredible things with Lutharo that I did. You have no idea how much you all mean to me and I’m eternally grateful for you!

So what happens next? Well, you definitely haven’t seen the last of me in music that’s for sure! As stated before this is my purpose and I will never stop fighting for that! I truly hope we cross paths again on the road somewhere soon and don’t be afraid to reach out! Stay metal my friends”

Hofing also issued a statement:

“CORY’S EXIT STATEMENT:

It is with a heavy heart that I announce my departure from Lutharo, effective immediately. Over the years, being part of this band has brought many highs and lows, and I am grateful for the experiences, the music, and the incredible support from fans around the world. However, in recent years, it became increasingly difficult for me to feel comfortable within the environment of the band.

There were ongoing internal dynamics and patterns of behavior that I found unhealthy, and I reached a point where I could no longer continue in that space. In recent months, I had many honest conversations with my friend and bandmate Krista. Through these conversations, I gained a deeper understanding of what she has experienced over many years. Based on what I have personally seen and heard, I fully support her decision to step away for the sake of her mental health and well-being.

I stand with her and respect her strength in choosing herself after enduring so much. Because of this, I no longer feel right remaining in the band. I cannot continue to be part of something that caused so much pain to someone I care about. Moving forward, I will be focusing on my other project, Crimson Shadows, my podcast We’re Talkin’ Drums, and new musical collaborations with incredible musicians.

Thank you to all the fans, friends, and family who have supported both of us during our time in Lutharo. Your encouragement has meant everything, and I hope to cross paths with you all again in the future.”

The remaining members have since commented as well:

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Krista and Cory have decided to part ways with Lutharo.

Krista has been an integral part of this band since the very beginning. For the past 11 years, her voice, lyrics, energy, and commitment have helped shape and grow Lutharo into what it is today. She has poured her heart and soul into this band and her spirit will always be a part of Lutharo. We’ve grown so much together and are forever grateful for the incredibly wild journey we’ve shared.

Cory played a huge role in elevating the band early on with his contributions to the Unleash the Beast EP, and he gave absolutely everything during the writing and recording of 2024’s Chasing Euphoria. He brought an infectious energy, to every stage, always smiling and blasting.

Krista and Cory will be truly and deeply missed, and we wish them nothing but love, happiness, and success in whatever the next chapter may bring.

To all of our fans, thank you for standing by us during these incredibly tough times. Although this chapter closes, our journey continues.

All of our previously announced shows, including our upcoming European tour with Alestorm and Roses of Thieves, will still take place. Details coming soon.”