Killswitch Engage vocalist quits band

Killswitch Engage has suffered a major setback just weeks after the release of their Roadrunner Records debut as vocalist and frontman Jesse Leach revealed his departure from the group via email earlier this month. His break from the group may or may not be permanent. Apparently Leach wants to devote more time to his family and possibly pursue spiritual endeavors (his father was a minister). The search for a replacement is already underway, with Philip Labonte from All That Remains reportedly being a candidate. Here's the official word from Roadrunner: "Due to personal issues and vocal strain, Killswitch Engage vocalist Jesse Leach has announced that he is taking a break from the band's current tour featuring Kittie, Poison the Well and Shadows Fall. The band is in the midst of vocal rehearsals in order to carry on the tour without Leach, but anticipate his return in the future. In regards to the tour, Leach issued the following statement: 'Due to personal circumstances out of my control, I will not be able to hit the road with Killswitch Engage on our upcoming tour run. I'd like to take this opportunity to apologize to Roadrunner Records, and more importantly, to our fans. We are currently training another vocalist to do the tour and to carry the torch until I am well. My apologies to everyone, but I have to do what needs to be done.'"