It’s a sad day for the metal world in southeast Minnesota.

Yesterday afternoon, Patton Hudella announced he’d be leaving local symphonic metal band AfterTime. He’d been their bassist since January of 2017.

Hudella explained on his Facebook page, “This has been a hard decision but I have decided to leave AfterTime to be able to focus more on other parts of my life. I’ll always miss playing with you guys and can’t thank you enough for the amazing opportunity and all the memories.”

I, for one, will miss Patton’s playing and enthusiasm he showed on stage. I connected with his punk attitude and love of Anti-Flag, Black Sabbath, Rick & Morty, and Otep. He, personally, is a big supporter of the local music scene as well. I suspect he’ll continue to be.

Since this announcement, there has been no word from either Patton or AfterTime on specific plans as to what’s next.

I’m confident that AfterTime will continue to rock, and that Patton will certainly be missed.