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ICED EARTH Mainman Interviewed On 'Heavy Metal Thunder' (Audio)

March 3, 2011

On February 14, DJ JC Green of Metal Messiah Radio's "Heavy Metal Thunder" show conducted an interview with ICED EARTH mainman Jon Schaffer. The chat can now be streamed using the audio player below. (Note: The interview was conducted two weeks before vocalist Matt Barlow announced that he was "retiring" from ICED EARTH.)

ICED EARTH vocalist Matt Barlow announced his retirement from the band yesterday (Wednesday, March 2),citing his commitment to his family and the need for the group to tour more as the reasons for his exit from the group. However, he has committed to perform with ICED EARTH on all 2011 European festival dates, which will be his last with the band.

Jon Schaffer reacted to his friend's decision by stating, "I knew Matt wrestled with this for a long, long time. It wasn't an easy decision for him. But I love him dearly and I can't fault his reasons."

Schaffer continued: "Matt is one of the most sincere people I know, and one of the most talented. His departure deeply saddens me, but I hope all fans of ICED EARTH will cut him some slack. I wish Matt well, respect him greatly, and I ask everyone else to do the same."

With a new album in the works, and a world tour pending, Schaffer has already begun the search for a new vocalist.

"I have a few guys in mind," said Schaffer. "And as you can imagine, it is a very important decision. One thing is for certain: we are not looking for a Matt Barlow 'clone' — we are looking for a front man that brings power and character of his own to the table. There's only one Matt, and that era of the band's history will always hold a special place in my heart."

The band's long-awaited six-hour, three-concert live DVD, "Festivals Of The Wicked", is scheduled for release this spring.

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