Jon Schaffer Announces Reworked Sons Of Liberty Collection Following U.S. Capitol Involvement

Former Iced Earth guitarist Jon Schaffer is returning to music with a revamped collection from his politically-driven side project Sons Of Liberty.

Titled Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2), the release compiles newly remixed versions of past Sons Of Liberty material, enhanced with updated live drumming from Mark Prator (ex-Iced Earth). The set has been remixed by Jim Morris and is scheduled for a July 4 release through The Circle Music.

In a lengthy statement, Schaffer described Sons Of Liberty as “more than music,” calling it “a wake-up call” centered on themes of liberty and individual sovereignty. He said the updated mixes and new drum performances give the material “the sonic power they deserve,” adding that he intends to continue writing new music under the project banner in the future.

A press release accompanying the announcement framed the collection as “anti-authoritarian” and “non-partisan,” emphasizing themes of personal freedom and resistance to systems perceived as aggressive or overreaching.

Background On Capitol Riot Case

Schaffer was arrested in early 2021 in connection with the January 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol in United States Capitol. He initially faced multiple federal charges, including unlawful entry and disorderly conduct inside the Capitol building. Authorities also identified him at the time as having ties to the Oath Keepers militia group.

While in custody, Schaffer entered into a cooperation agreement with federal authorities. In October 2024, he was sentenced to three years of probation and fined $2,200 in light of his assistance. He was later pardoned in 2025 by Donald J. Trump.

In recent years, Schaffer has publicly stated that he has embraced Christianity and signaled a desire to move forward creatively. Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) marks his first major musical release since the events surrounding the Capitol riot.

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