In a surprising turn of events, Mike Spreitzer, the guitarist who has been a cornerstone of DevilDriver since 2004, announced his departure from the band late last night. Known for his contributions to every DevilDriver album since 2005’s *The Fury of Our Maker’s Hand*, Spreitzer’s exit marks the end of an era for the groove metal and metalcore outfit.
In his detailed statement, Spreitzer revealed that the decision to leave was a personal one, driven by a combination of factors. He expressed disappointment with the band’s reduced activity level over recent years, which led him to explore other projects. His work on these side projects, however, encountered hostility from within the band, further complicating his situation.
“After 20 years of playing guitar for DevilDriver, I have decided it is time to go my own way,” Spreitzer wrote. He lamented that since around 2014, DevilDriver had started to feel like a part-time endeavor, with the touring schedule significantly diminished. This shift led him to seek opportunities that would allow him to immerse himself fully in music once again.
Spreitzer’s nostalgia for life on the road is palpable. He reminisced about the camaraderie, the daily rituals of touring, and the simple joys of being a full-time musician. He missed everything from the bustling energy of summer festivals to the unique aroma of dive bar bathrooms across Europe. His deep connection to these experiences underscores his desire to return to a more constant and fulfilling musical journey.
Despite understanding the challenges the band faced since 2019—such as the pandemic, family emergencies, and health issues—Spreitzer expressed frustration that DevilDriver had not fully regained its momentum. His new project, Verona On Venus, was intended to fill the void left by DevilDriver’s sporadic activity. Spreitzer acknowledged that his involvement with Verona On Venus was never meant to overshadow DevilDriver but noted that it provided him with a viable path to tour and perform more regularly.
“I would rather not sit at home waiting for this to become a full-time job any longer,” he stated. The decision to focus on Verona On Venus or potentially join another band reflects his need for a more consistent musical presence.
To DevilDriver fans, Spreitzer offered heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering support, calling their dedication a bright light in his life. He also extended his best wishes to his former bandmates Dez, Jon, Alex, and Davier.
As for DevilDriver’s future, the band had recently hinted at new developments, including potential work with former drummer John Boecklin. How Spreitzer’s departure will impact these plans remains to be seen, but his exit undoubtedly marks a significant shift for the band.
