Killswitch Engage Reportedly Leaving Roadrunner Records

Update, 12:14 P.M. EDT: Vince helpfully points out that the “We are in the middle of a new record deal” could mean the band is just negotiating their re-signing to Roadrunner and not necessarily that they’re leaving RR. Which is true enough! I guess we’ll find out. Original story follows.

After sixteen years and six albums, it would appear that Killswitch Engage are parting ways with Roadrunner Records.

The revelation comes from a new interview with bassist Mike D’Antonio, who says the band already has most of 22 songs written and recorded save for vocals, which had to be put on hold due to frontman Jesse Leach’s recent throat surgery. D’Antonio elaborated:

“We are in the middle of a new record deal. I can’t announce yet, but that is happening at the moment. And I hope [the new album will] be out before next year, but I can’t really promise. We’re just gonna take it slow and make sure Jesse’s happy and records appropriately.”

This news isn’t exactly shocking — almost everyone who worked at Roadrunner when KSE was signed is long gone, and, surely, there’s no shortage of labels who’d kill to have the band on their roster. Still, this does mark the end of an era; Killswitch Engage defined Roadrunner in the early 21st century as much as any band.

More info when it’s available…

[via The PRP]