Drummer Dave McClain has released his first public statement following his departure from thrash metal veterans Sacred Reich, confirming that it was his decision to “move on” from the band. His message comes one day after the band announced the split and revealed plans for a new album.
In a statement posted to his social media on Tuesday, October 21, McClain reflected on his second tenure with the Arizona thrashers, which began in 2018.
He wrote:
“Hey everyone! As I’m sure you’ve heard, I’m no longer with Sacred Reich.”
“Since rejoining in 2018 we made great music and had fun times together. I’ve decided to move on and I wish them all the best in the future!”
“If you’ve been at a Sacred Reich show over the last 6 years, it was my pleasure to perform for you and to meet a lot of you.”
“Still 100% doing my thing, whether it’s touring, recording, teaching or just playing in my home studio.”
“Hope to see you all out there in the world again. Now back to my drum room!”
“Thanks, Dave.”
McClain‘s statement follows the band’s announcement on Monday, October 20, confirming his departure and revealing their plans moving forward. They announced that Brazilian drummer Eduardo Baldo will fill in for their upcoming European tour with Hatebreed and confirmed they are finishing a new album titled Into The Abyss, scheduled for release in spring 2026.
The band’s statement reads:
“Dave McClain is no longer a member of Sacred Reich. We wish him the best. Our friend Eduardo Baldo will be playing the Hatebreed shows with us in November in Europe. We thank him for jumping in on such short notice.”
“We are excited for this new chapter in Sacred Reich history.”
“We are finishing up our new record Into The Abyss that will be released in the Spring of 2026 on Metal Blade Records.”
“Great things are coming. We can’t wait to share it with you.”
“With love and gratitude, Wiley, Joey and Phil.”
This marks the end of McClain‘s second stint with Sacred Reich. He originally joined in 1991 before leaving in 1995 to join Machine Head. He returned in 2018 and played on their acclaimed 2019 comeback album, Awakening. While the reasons for his departure remain undisclosed, both parties have presented the split as amicable as they head into new chapters.
