After more than 20 years of performing and recording together, drummer Shannon Larkin and guitarist Tony Rombola have officially stepped away from Godsmack. The band confirmed the news this week through a post on social media, putting an end to speculation and making it clear that both musicians left on their own terms.
Shannon Larkin, who joined the group in 2002, has been an unmistakable presence behind the drums ever since. His tight, aggressive playing helped define some of Godsmack’s most recognisable tracks. Rombola had been with the band even longer, playing a central role in shaping their sound from the early days. Together, they contributed to albums like Faceless, IV, and The Oracle, and helped Godsmack maintain a consistent presence in hard rock through the 2000s.
The band explained that both members decided it was time to move on. There were no dramatic announcements, no signs of falling out, just a mutual understanding that it was the right moment for a change. Vocalist Sully Erna also spoke briefly about the departure, saying that their friendships are still intact and that the band fully supports whatever comes next for Larkin and Rombola.
For fans, the news hits hard. These weren’t just players in the lineup. They were part of the core. Their chemistry on stage and their feel in the studio was all part of what kept Godsmack sounding like Godsmack for so many years. And while change is always part of a band’s story, this one feels significant.
The group’s most recent album, Lighting Up the Sky, came out in 2023 and was described at the time as their final studio release. Even then, the band hinted they would continue touring. With this lineup change, though, the future feels less certain. There’s been no word yet on who will fill the now-vacant drummer and guitarist roles or if the band plans to announce replacements at all.
Neither Larkin nor Rombola have released personal statements so far. It’s not clear what their next moves might be, whether musically or otherwise. But after two decades of being part of one of hard rock’s more consistent bands, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them reappear in some form down the road.
What this means for Godsmack going forward remains to be seen. The band is still active, but this chapter has clearly come to a close. For now, what’s left is a moment to reflect on the run they had together, a run that helped define the sound of a generation for rock fans.