Former Iced Earth vocalist Matt Barlow has publicly expressed his strong desire and full support for Iced Earth founder Jon Schaffer to re-engage with music. In a recent interview with Spain’s Stairway To Rock, Barlow shared his anticipation for Schaffer‘s musical comeback, whether under the Iced Earth banner or a new project.
“I can’t wait for Jon to do something else musically,” Barlow stated (as transcribed by Blabbermouth). “I really hope that he does.” The remarks come after Schaffer‘s legal entanglements stemming from his involvement in the U.S. Capitol riot, for which he received a three-year probation sentence, later pardoned by President Donald Trump. Barlow, who is Schaffer‘s brother-in-law, acknowledged the public’s disappointment but hopes for understanding and a path forward. “Jon is disappointed as well and has apologized,” Barlow affirmed. “Hopefully there is a redemption story in here… I think the outcome ultimately will be something — a very, very, very positive thing.”
Despite calls from some fans for Barlow to rejoin Iced Earth should Schaffer revive the band, Barlow remains clear on his position. He emphasized that he will not pressure Schaffer into any musical direction, recognizing that Iced Earth is Schaffer‘s creative domain. “He’s a fantastic musician and writer, and I think that any project that he does is going to be a good thing,” Barlow noted.
Meanwhile, Barlow continues his own musical journey with Ashes of Ares, a band he formed with fellow ex-Iced Earth member Freddie Vidales. This past April, Ashes of Ares announced a European tour for September/October 2025, where they will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Iced Earth‘s influential 1996 album, The Dark Saga, performing it in its entirety. Barlow confirmed that Jon Schaffer gave his blessing for this tribute, albeit with limitations regarding the use of Iced Earth‘s copyrighted logos. “We didn’t necessarily have to ask his blessing, but we did. Freddie contacted him, and he said, ‘Absolutely,'” Barlow told Stairway To Rock.
Ashes of Ares is also set to release their fourth studio album, New Messiahs, in Europe on July 18th and in North America on August 8th via ROAR!. Barlow‘s history with Iced Earth spans two distinct periods, from 1993 to 2003 and again from 2007 to 2011, with his final performance being at the 2011 Wacken Open Air festival. His departure in 2011 was attributed to his commitment to family and Iced Earth‘s increasing touring demands.
