SOULFLY parts ways with bassist MIKE LEON
10-04-2025
SOULFLY has parted ways with the band’s longtime bassist Mike Leon.
Leon, formerly of HAVOK, joined SOULFLY in September 2015 as the replacement for STATIC-X bassist Tony Campos, who left SOULFLY in May of that year.
On Wednesday (April 9), SOULFLY released the following message via social media: “After many strong years together, SOULFLY is parting ways with bassist Mike Leon. The tribe are still performing at the upcoming Mexico City’s Nu Metal Revolution on May 3rd with the Sorcerer, Igor Amadeus, of CAVALERA band, GO AHEAD AND DIE and HEALING MAGIC filling in.
“We’re going in different directions now and we thank Mike for all the time spent with us rocking hard on stage!
Leon added in a separate statement: “After an incredible 10 + year journey with SOULFLY/CAVALERA, the time has come to move on and pursue new opportunities.
“I’m deeply grateful for the experiences, the music, and the relationships built along the way — it’s been an honor to grow alongside such dedicated fans.
“I’ve been proud to contribute to the music community through my work as Director of Artist Relations with ENKI Cases, supporting artists with industry leading gear protection, and will continue to do so.
“As I look ahead, I’m excited to focus on exploring and creating new musical opportunities!
“Thank you to everyone who’s been part of the journey so far — here’s to the next chapter!”
SOULFLY is continuing to tour in support of its latest album, “Totem”, which came out in August 2022 via Nuclear Blast. The follow-up to 2018’s “Ritual” was recorded at Platinum Underground in Mesa, Arizona by John Aquilino and Arthur Rizk with assistance from John Powers. Produced by Max Cavalera alongside Arthur Rizk (KREATOR, MUNICIPAL WASTE, CODE ORANGE),the LP boasts guest appearances from John Powers (ETERNAL CHAMPION),Chris Ulsh (POWER TRIP), and John Tardy (OBITUARY). Rizk was also responsible for playing lead guitar on the record. The artwork for the album was created by James Bousema.
Max Cavalera comments on the album: “‘Totem’ is a celebration of the spiritual nature. It was a two-year journey writing with my son and SOULFLY drummer Zyon. This album is about all the joy, the fun and the anger in metal.”
“Totem” track listing:
01. Superstition
02. Scouring The Vile
03. Filth Upon Filth
04. Rot In Pain
05. The Damage Done
06. Totem
07. Ancestors
08. Ecstasy Of Gold
09. Soulfly XII
10. Spirit Animal
In August, SOULFLY parted ways with longtime guitarist Marc Rizzo due to personal differences. A permanent replacement guitarist has yet to be announced. FEAR FACTORY‘s Dino Cazares played guitar for SOULFLY on the summer 2021 U.S. tour and once again handled second-guitar duties on the band’s most recent run of shows.
‘Totem’ will be available in the following formats:
- CD Jewelcase
- Blue Cassette (Limited to 300)
- Long Box
- CD Jewelcase
- Sticker
- Pin
- Vinyl
- Black
- Gold
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