Architects have revealed that guitarist Josh Middleton has officially parted ways with the band. The news was confirmed through an Instagram post on the band’s official account, featuring a heartfelt message expressing both gratitude and the decision to pursue separate paths. The departure of Middleton marks the end of an era for Architects, but the band members assured fans that they remain close friends despite their professional parting.
The post captured a poignant moment, depicting all five members of Architects standing together onstage after a performance supporting the legendary band Metallica. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce Josh’s time in the band has come to an end,” the message read. “It has gradually become apparent that we need to go our separate ways, but we remain close friends.”
Middleton’s tenure with Architects began in 2016 when he joined as the band’s touring guitarist, stepping in after the tragic loss of founding member Tom Searle. In 2017, Middleton became a full-time member, taking up the role of the band’s six-stringer. It was an impressive juggling act as he continued to be the driving force behind his original band, Sylosis, simultaneously.
Architects expressed deep gratitude for Middleton’s role in keeping the band alive during their darkest hour. “Josh was a life raft for the band after we lost Tom, and he gave us a way to keep the band alive through the hardest experience of our lives. We will always be grateful to him for that.” The band members shared their well wishes for Middleton’s future endeavors and encouraged fans to keep an eye out for the upcoming Sylosis record, set to release later this year.
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