Bad Wolves guitarist Doc Coyle and bassist Kyle Konkiel have departed amicably from the band, according to statements released Wednesday, April 2, 2025. They each had been with the band since its founding in 2017. Guitarist Chris Cain, who was a member of Bad Wolves from 2017 to 2022, and bassist Kevin Creekman have stepped in as their replacements.
Bad Wolves achieved major success in 2018 with a cover of The Cranberries’ hit “Zombie.” A string of hit singles followed, including “Hear Me Now,” “Remember When,” “Killing Me Slowly,” “Sober” and “Lifeline.” The band had a messy split with original vocalist Tommy Vext in 2021 and has released two albums since recruiting Daniel “DL” Laskiewicz as its frontman. Its most recent album, “Die About It,” was released in 2023.
Bad Wolves founder and drummer John Boecklin said: “Words can’t really express what Kyle and Doc mean to me as bandmates, as well as friends. I love them with all my heart and I wish them luck on their journey. Having Chris return home feels so right, we’ve already been writing so he’s back in the saddle. Creekman is brand new … to us and the fans, so let’s welcome him into this next chapter and go kill it.”
Laskiewicz and guitarist AJ Rebello released a joint statement: “We are very much looking forward to this new chapter of Bad Wolves with Chris and Kevin on board. We can’t wait to share new music with the Wolfpack and see you all out on the road again soon.”
Coyle—also a member of God Forbid, which reunited in 2022 and has continued to play live shows since then—released the following statement:
“Dear Wolfpack, I regret to inform you that I have decided to part ways with Bad Wolves. It was not an easy decision to make. I have been playing with the band for almost 9 years, so this is a massive life change for me. It should be said that this is a completely amicable split. I love John, Kyle, DL, and AJ. Not being in the trenches going forward with my boys is the hardest part of all of this. But this has been coming for a long while, and I think my time in the band has just run its course. I am still rooting for Bad Wolves to take over the world. And it warms my heart knowing that our old guitarist, Chris Cain, is coming back to take the baton from me on lead guitar.
“I won’t provide an in-depth explanation of why I’m leaving at the moment. I’m sure I’ll share more details at some point when it’s appropriate. I feel like I’ve lost a bit of who I am as a creative and where my passion lies. Being in this band has brought challenges that have taken quite an emotional toll and burned me out. Through the ups and downs, I’ve done everything in my power to make Bad Wolves successful. I’m very proud of our work, the albums we made, and overcoming the adversity we faced. But it’s time for a fresh start.
“Breaking out the way we did in 2018 gave me a 2nd chapter to my career that I could never have dreamed of. Being in our late 30s and receiving #1 singles, gold albums, and arena tours right out of the gate was a stunning achievement. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities and doors that have opened since I was in Bad Wolves. And I’m proud of the fact that it inspired many musicians to keep grinding it out. If we could do it, you could do it.
“I want to thank everyone who worked with the band all these years – everyone at 10th Street Management and Better Noise Music, Eric and MSK, Independent Artist Group, every single crew member we’ve had, everyone who’s written songs with us or done production work on any of our albums, but most of all I want to thank the Bad Wolves fans. Your dedication has been a true inspiration. We’ve gotten each other through lots of hard times. The Wolfpack really is a family to me. Any time I’ve had the chance to meet you in person, give you a hug, share your story, or take a picture together has meant the world to me. I will forever be grateful for your support.
“What’s next? I’m not sure, but for the first time in a long time, I have nothing on the books. My schedule is wide open. That frightens me and excites me. I’m writing music. I’m on a journey to find out what hell it is I want in life. And it’s ok to not have all the answers right now. If you know me, you know that I’m not very good at staying idle, so I’m sure I’ll see you all soon.”
Konkiel said: “After eight incredible years, l’ve decided to step down from Bad Wolves.
“This wasn’t an easy choice, but after much reflection, I know in my heart that I can no longer give this band 100%. And anything less wouldn’t be fair to the music, my bandmates, or the fans.
“There are so many things I still want to accomplish in my career, and I feel now is the time to explore new creative paths, whether on my own or in a new project.
“The memories, the shows, and the experiences over the past near-decade will always hold a special place in my heart. I wish John, DL, and AJ nothing but success and will continue to cheer them on however I can. And as for my brother Doc, you already know I’ve got his back for life. We’ve been through more together than most bands ever do, and my support doesn’t end here.
“To all the incredible fans, crew, and fellow musicians I’ve met along the way, thank you. Your support has meant everything, and I look forward to crossing paths again in whatever comes next.
“This isn’t the end. Just the start of a new chapter.”
Bad Wolves are scheduled to play two shows in summer 2025:
- July 11 – Gettysburg Bike Week – Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
- July 19 – Timberwood Amphitheatre at Magic Springs Theme Park – Hot Springs, Arizona
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