CRADLE OF FILTH Parts Ways with Guitarist Marek "Ashok" Šmerda
Announcement of Departure
In a shocking turn of events, CRADLE OF FILTH has officially announced the firing of guitarist Marek "Ashok" Šmerda. This decision comes mere hours after Šmerda disclosed his intention to leave the band following their current Latin American tour. Frontman Dani Filth took to social media to share the news, expressing the band’s collective shock over the proceedings.
Dani Filth’s Statement
Dani Filth addressed fans with a heartfelt message, stating, "It is with a grave heart that CRADLE OF FILTH officially announce the firing of guitarist Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda from the band, effective immediately." He reassured fans that despite the turmoil, the band would not cancel any of their South American shows. "Fans will have to bear with us being a band with only one guitarist live," he noted, adding that a temporary replacement would join the tour shortly.
Filth urged fans to respect the band’s decision and avoid speculation, promising that more clarity on the situation would be provided in due course. He also defended the band’s management against accusations of unprofessional conduct, asserting that such claims were "completely unjust and unfounded."
Ashok’s Announcement
Marek Šmerda’s decision to leave the band was compounded by personal circumstances, particularly the recent departure of his wife, Zoë M. Federoff, who had served as CRADLE OF FILTH’s female vocalist and keyboardist. In a statement, Šmerda emphasized the mutual conclusion he and his wife reached: "We simply do not feel like CRADLE can provide for our future, and in fact hinders it." He cited low pay, high stress, and a lack of prioritization for band members as contributing factors to their decision.
Šmerda also requested the removal of his compositions from upcoming releases, expressing dissatisfaction with the evolving nature of a collaboration with Ed Sheeran.
Zoë M. Federoff’s Departure
Zoë M. Federoff’s exit from CRADLE OF FILTH occurred just days before her husband’s announcement. She cited "personal reasons" for her decision, leading Dani Filth to confirm that the band had already arranged for a temporary replacement, Kelsey Peters, to step in.
In response to speculation surrounding their personal lives, Federoff clarified, "Ashok isn’t cheating…we remain very much certain that we love each other." She further explained that their departure from the band was a decision they had been contemplating for some time.
Marek Šmerda’s Journey with CRADLE OF FILTH
Marek Šmerda, born in Brno, Czech Republic, joined CRADLE OF FILTH in early 2014 and quickly became a staple of the band’s lineup. Throughout his time with the band, he contributed to critically acclaimed albums such as "Hammer Of The Witches," "Cryptoriana – The Seductiveness Of Decay," "Existence Is Futile," and "The Screaming Of The Valkyries." His experience over the last two decades, including work with various bands and musical projects, has shaped his unique playing style and songwriting.
Conclusion
The unexpected firing of Marek "Ashok" Šmerda from CRADLE OF FILTH marks a significant moment in the band’s history, compounded by personal challenges faced by both Ashok and his wife. As the band continues its tour in South America, fans are left to navigate the implications of these changes while looking forward to the band’s future endeavors.
FAQs
Why did Marek "Ashok" Šmerda leave CRADLE OF FILTH?
Marek Šmerda announced his departure due to personal and professional reasons, including dissatisfaction with the band’s direction and treatment of its members.
What prompted Zoë M. Federoff’s exit from the band?
Zoë Federoff left CRADLE OF FILTH for personal reasons and had been contemplating her decision prior to her husband’s announcement.
Will CRADLE OF FILTH continue their tour without Ashok?
Yes, Dani Filth confirmed that the band would continue their South American tour with a temporary replacement for the guitar position.
What albums did Ashok contribute to during his time with CRADLE OF FILTH?
Ashok contributed to several albums, including "Hammer Of The Witches," "Cryptoriana – The Seductiveness Of Decay," "Existence Is Futile," and "The Screaming Of The Valkyries."
