Ill Niño have reportedly parted ways with newly recruited guitarist Xander Raymond Charles less than a month before he was set to make his live debut with the band.
Charles shared the news on March 22nd via a public statement, revealing that he had been hired earlier this year as a permanent replacement guitarist but was unexpectedly dismissed just weeks ahead of the group’s upcoming Latin American tour. The run will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band’s debut album Revolution Revolución, with support from (hed)p.e. and others.
According to Charles, the decision came without warning:
“In the beginning of 2026, I was hired by the band ILL NINO to become a permanent replacement and the newest member. Last night, I received a call telling me they no longer need me as a replacement. This was a total shock, as I was committed for several months, and the first show is 3 weeks away. I was informed this decision was completely out of my control, and I had nothing to do with it.
As of today, I am available for work. If anyone needs a guitar player, I’m here. I keep my word, and I commit to what I agree to.
Lastly, there is no bad blood, and I understand this is strictly a business decision. I wish ILL NINO nothing but the best.
— XRC”
The band have not publicly commented on the situation as of yet, leaving the circumstances.
If you’re rocking with The Mosh Network, hit the link and add us as a Preferred Source on Google. That’s the easiest way to keep our latest metal, hardcore, and alternative news, tours, and releases showing up directly in your feed.
