Matt Heafy reveals near departure from Trivium

Trivium frontman Matt Heafy has revealed that he nearly left the band in 2025 following internal tensions and a breakdown in group chemistry. He described the period as a “quiet explosion” that occurred after the band completed a North American tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of their album ‘Ascendancy’.

Heafy stated that he reached a breaking point during a guitar recording session, leading him to leave the studio and attempt to distance himself from the group. He credits his wife, Ashley, with convincing him to return to the studio and resolve the issues rather than quitting.

Despite Heafy staying, the band underwent a significant lineup change in October 2025 when drummer Alex Bent departed. Heafy characterized the departure as a necessary “correction” for the survival of the band, noting that the group is now more cohesive during live performances with Alex Rüdinger on drums. The band is scheduled to release a new album, ‘Crown In The Grave’, on November 20.