Ryan Wombacher, the long-standing bassist of Bleeding Through, has officially bid adieu to the band, a move that was foreshadowed by his withdrawal from live performances last autumn. Wombacher's journey with the group spanned from 2002 to 2014, and he rejoined them after a hiatus in 2017, staying until recently. On February 16th, he released a heartfelt statement reflecting on his tenure and the band's latest album, Nine.
In his post, Wombacher shared: "I am deeply honored to be a part of this album. It stands as some of Bleeding Through's finest work to date. Everyone gave it their all. Unfortunately, I sustained severe back injuries in both 2020 and 2023, altering my physical capabilities forever. My final performance was in September 2024. While I do miss the stage, I now have a desire to pursue other passions in my free time. Fishing, hunting, and backpacking have always held a special place in my heart. The physical strain of trekking into the wilderness is excruciating, but the allure of these activities pushes me to endure the pain.
"I embarked on my touring journey at the tender age of 20 and can scarcely believe I continued until I was 42. I wouldn't trade those years for anything. Though I missed out on many family moments and happenings at home, the experiences I gained are invaluable. Thank you for your unwavering support, for attending our shows, and for making those memories unforgettable. Bleeding Through continues to thrive, and I am immensely proud of my former bandmates. Thank you for the music."