Alex Bent. – Foto: Instagram
The heavy metal band Trivium announced on Thursday an amicable split with drummer Alex Bent after nine years together. The decision comes as they prepare for the EP Struck Dead, set for release on October 31. Bent, who joined the band in 2016, contributed to albums like The Sin and the Sentence (2017) and In the Court of the Dragon (2021). His departure marks a natural transition in his career, with Bent expressing continued support for the group.
The announcement was made via Trivium’s social media, based in Orlando, Florida, USA. Bent shared his pride in their shared work and gratitude for the experiences. The band, formed in 1999, now faces the task of finding a replacement for their fifth drummer in history.
Bent’s tenure included extensive studio recordings and international tours. He succeeded Nick Augusto and became the second-longest-serving drummer, behind Travis Smith, who was with the band from 1999 to 2010.
Alex Bent’s studio contributions
Alex Bent recorded key parts for four full albums and the upcoming EP. His work on The Sin and the Sentence helped the album top U.S. rock charts. What the Dead Men Say (2020) marked the band’s ninth studio effort and earned praise for its intensity.
He also contributed to In the Court of the Dragon, which received a Grammy nomination for best metal performance with the track Betrayer. These projects solidified Trivium’s aggressive and melodic sound.
Immediate schedule post-announcement
Trivium performs this Saturday at the Aftershock festival in Sacramento, California. The band confirmed their participation without revealing Bent’s replacement on drums. Upcoming dates include the Ascend Above the Ashes tour, starting October 31 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
The current lineup features Matt Heafy on vocals and guitar, Corey Beaulieu on guitar, and Paolo Gregoletto on bass. Heafy, the only original member, has led the band since its inception.
History of lineup changes
Trivium has seen multiple drummer changes over the years. Mat Madiro and Paul Wandtke were early names, followed by Travis Smith, who stabilized the rhythm section for over a decade. Nick Augusto took over in 2012 and left in 2016, paving the way for Bent.
These transitions occurred during periods of growth in the metal scene. Ascendancy (2005) was their first major success, earning gold certification in the UK.
Each change brought sonic evolution, blending metalcore and melodic death metal influences. Shogun (2008) reached the top 20 on the Billboard charts.
Statements and future plans
Bent stated he plans to pursue independent musical projects. He expressed a desire to explore new opportunities while staying connected to Trivium. The band publicly thanked him for his contributions and emphasized their lasting friendship.
The EP Struck Dead includes three tracks, with the single Bury Me With My Screams released in August. Produced by the band and recorded at Hangar Studios in Orlando, it maintains their heavy, dual-vocal style.
- Confirmed tracks: Bury Me With My Screams, Betrayer, and one undisclosed song.
- Collaboration with producer Mark Lewis, known for work with Whitechapel and Trivium.
- Release via Roadrunner Records, a partner since 2004.
Tours and next album
The band plans its eleventh studio album for 2026, following the current tour. Corey Beaulieu revealed in an interview that compositions are underway, focusing on intense riffs. The European schedule includes October shows with guests like Jinjer and Heriot.
The Poisoned Ascendancy Tour celebrates 20 years of Ascendancy, performing the album in full. Despite changes, like Bullet for My Valentine’s exit in May, Trivium continues with North American and European dates.
This structure allows the band to balance releases and live performances. The EP serves as a bridge to the next full-length, produced in their own studio built in 2024.
Aftershock festival preparations
The Aftershock festival gathers metal bands annually in Sacramento. Trivium holds a main slot on Saturday, with a setlist likely featuring recent hits. Without a named temporary drummer, a session musician is speculated for the event.
The show’s production prioritizes visuals, like synchronized videos with tracks. Fans anticipate performances of In Waves and The Rising, staples of their catalog.
Main keywords: Trivium, Alex Bent, Struck Dead EP, heavy metal, drummer departure.
