VICIOUS RUMORS Parts Ways With Longtime Drummer Larry Howe Over Political Differences
February 18, 2026
The legendary U.S. power metal band VICIOUS RUMORS has made a significant change in their lineup, parting ways with their longtime drummer, Larry Howe, due to personal political differences. In a statement released today, the band expressed their strong disagreement with Howe's political views, which they deemed incompatible with their own.
"After years of discord over this issue, VICIOUS RUMORS has decided to part ways with Larry Howe, our drummer for many years," the band announced on social media. "We have never aligned with Larry's personal political ambitions, and we can no longer tolerate being associated with his views, which do not reflect our band's values."
The band emphasized their commitment to unity and the celebration of heavy metal, values that have been at the core of VICIOUS RUMORS since its formation in 1979. They cited their song 'World Church' as an example of their mission to bring people together.
"Our message is simple: Unity and the celebration of heavy metal!" the band stated. "This message has remained unchanged since our early days. We wrote songs like 'World Church' to foster unity, and that's what we stand for."
Despite the departure, VICIOUS RUMORS assured fans that Howe will fulfill his commitments to the band's upcoming U.S. tour, 'The Devil's Asylum Tour,' which begins on February 25th and ends on March 28th. The band expressed gratitude for Howe's dedication and musical talent over the years.
"We want to thank Larry for his years of commitment and incredible musicianship," they said. "We will soon announce a new touring drummer to join us on our upcoming European tour."
Howe, who joined VICIOUS RUMORS in 1985, has a strong political stance, referring to himself as a 'rock 'n' roll patriot' on his Instagram profile. He frequently posts messages like 'God bless America, the best country ever!' The band's latest album, 'The Devil's Asylum,' was released in August 2025 and received critical acclaim.
VICIOUS RUMORS, led by guitarist and founder Geoff Thorpe, has had a dynamic membership history, with over 40 members since its inception. Thorpe noted that the band maintains positive relationships with most of its past members, making it easier to find replacements when needed.
VICIOUS RUMORS has released numerous albums, including three LPs recorded for Atlantic Records in 1990 and 1991, which were reissued as a box set in September 2022. The band's enduring legacy in the heavy metal scene is a testament to their musical prowess and ability to adapt to changes while staying true to their core message.
