New Jersey hardcore punk band Gel has officially announced their disbandment following a series of alarming allegations against former guitarist Anthony Webster, which the group claims has caused “irreparable damage” to their dynamic. The band, which had been enjoying rising success with tours lined up alongside Spiritbox and Volbeat, played their final show in Tokyo this week before making their split public on social media.
Gel’s Announcement of Their Split
In an emotional statement shared on their Instagram account, Gel addressed the circumstances surrounding their breakup, specifically condemning the actions of former guitarist Anthony Webster.
CONTENT WARNING: The details below may be triggering.
Among the serious allegations against Webster, the band has accused him of misusing band funds for personal expenses, including rent and food, as well as a series of OnlyFans transactions and unexplained CashApp payments. The statement reveals that Webster was the sole member with access to the band’s bank account, leaving other members in the dark despite their attempts to gain access.
Furthermore, Webster is accused of posting nude images of his bandmates on Reddit and endangering their safety in various situations over the years. The band claims to have evidence to substantiate these claims.
READ MORE: 9 Bands That Broke Up Onstage (Or Right After)
Details from Gel’s Statement
Gel’s statement highlighted the following points:
- Allegations of Webster stealing tens of thousands of dollars from the band, spending it on personal expenses without consent.
- Accusations of posting nude images of band members online.
- Examples of reckless behavior, including driving dangerously and creating physical confrontations that put band members at risk.
In their announcement, the band expressed their frustration and sorrow over the situation, stating:
“The former guitar player, Anthony Webster, has committed such heinous acts in trying to forward himself in his musical career that he’s done irreparable damage to the band in the process.”
They continued to explain the complexities of leaving such a situation, likening it to an abusive relationship where emotional and physical safety are often intertwined with one’s passions and commitments.
A Sincere Farewell
Gel expressed their heartfelt apologies to fans, friends, and other artists who were looking forward to their future performances, particularly those scheduled with Spiritbox and Volbeat. They thanked their supporters for their loyalty and love over the years, leaving an open-ended sentiment for the future:
“Take care of each other, and love your friends.”
A Brief Overview of Gel’s Career
Formed in 2018 as a side project from the band Sick Shit, Gel quickly made a name for themselves within the hardcore punk scene. They released a full-length album, Only Constant, along with several EPs, including the self-titled debut, Violent Closure, and the recently released Persona. The lineup consisted of vocalist Sami Kaiser, bassist Matthew Bobko, guitarist Madison Nave, and drummer Alex Salter, with Webster having been a part of the band since its inception.
Despite their promising trajectory, the recent events have led to an abrupt end to their journey, with no announcements regarding future projects from the remaining members.
Conclusion
The disbandment of Gel serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise within creative partnerships. While the band experienced a promising rise within the punk scene, the actions of one member led to their unfortunate demise. As the members part ways, the music community reflects on the impact of their work and the lessons learned from their experience.
FAQs
What led to the breakup of Gel?
The breakup was primarily due to serious allegations against former guitarist Anthony Webster, including financial misconduct and inappropriate behavior that harmed the band’s dynamics.
What has Gel accomplished during their career?
Gel released one full-length album, Only Constant, and several EPs, gaining traction in the hardcore punk scene since their formation in 2018.
Will the remaining members of Gel continue making music?
As of now, the remaining members have not announced any future projects following the band’s breakup.
What should fans expect after Gel’s split?
Fans can expect the band to take time to process the situation and potentially pursue individual projects, but no official announcements have been made yet.
