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When five seasoned metal veterans decided to pool their collective firepower in 2017, nobody predicted they would accidentally stumble into one of the most emotionally charged cover songs in rock history. Bad Wolves transformed from ambitious side project to platinum-selling phenomenon overnight when their version of “Zombie” became an unexpected tribute to the late Dolores O’Riordan, who had planned to collaborate on the track before her sudden passing. This lightning-in-a-bottle moment launched a band that would rack up four studio albums, multiple Billboard Mainstream Rock number ones, and enough lineup drama to fuel a soap opera.
Bad Wolves was founded in 2017 by drummer John Boecklin (ex-DevilDriver), vocalist Tommy Vext (ex-Divine Heresy, ex-Westfield Massacre), lead guitarist Doc Coyle (ex-God Forbid), rhythm guitarist Chris Cain (ex-Bury Your Dead, ex-For the Fallen Dreams), and bassist Kyle Konkiel (ex-In This Moment, ex-Scar the Martyr, Vimic). The Los Angeles-based band experienced significant lineup changes throughout their career, particularly following the controversial departure of original vocalist Tommy Vext in January 2021. On April 2, 2025, guitarist Doc Coyle and bassist Kyle Konkiel departed the band. Former guitarist Chris Cain returned to the band, while Kevin Creekman, who appeared in the band’s music video for the song Killing Me Slowly was announced as the band’s new bassist.
The band achieved remarkable commercial success with their debut album Disobey reaching number 23 on the Billboard 200, driven largely by their platinum-certified cover of “Zombie.” Despite numerous personnel changes, Bad Wolves maintained their momentum with subsequent releases, demonstrating resilience through multiple eras defined by different vocalists and guitarists. These changes leave Cain and Boecklin as the only two original members left in the band as of the most recent lineup adjustments in early 2025.
Tommy Vext
Tommy Vext served as Bad Wolves’ original lead vocalist from the band’s formation in 2017 until his departure in January 2021. Thomas Cummings (born April 15, 1982), better known under the stage name Tommy Vext, is an American heavy metal singer known as the former lead vocalist of Bad Wolves, Divine Heresy, and Westfield Massacre. During his tenure with Bad Wolves, Vext contributed vocals to the band’s first two studio albums, Disobey (2018) and N.A.T.I.O.N. (2019), which established the group’s commercial foundation.
Of the thirteen songs in Disobey, ten were written and recorded before Vext joined the band, yet his vocal performance on tracks like “Zombie” became instrumental in the band’s early success. The cover of The Cranberries’ “Zombie” achieved platinum certification and became a defining moment for both Vext and the band. Bad Wolves reached platinum status in 2018 for their cover song “Zombie”. His powerful vocal delivery helped establish Bad Wolves’ identity during their breakthrough period.
Vext parted ways with Bad Wolves on January 9, 2021. Even though he originally said that he was “forced out by his former bandmates and record label”, Vext came out with a public statement on January 11, 2021, stating that the choice to leave was all his. The departure was surrounded by controversy involving political statements and personal conduct allegations. Outside of Bad Wolves, Vext’s career included significant work with Divine Heresy and Westfield Massacre, and he notably served as a touring replacement vocalist for Five Finger Death Punch during their 2017 European tour when Ivan Moody entered rehabilitation. Since August 2024, Vext as been touring with Ill Niño as vocalist, as a touring substitute for Marcos Leal. Leal departed the band the next month, and Vext has continuted to fill the role. Vext has also been involved in addiction recovery advocacy work, founding a non-profit organization in 2014 to help others struggling with substance abuse.
Daniel “DL” Laskiewicz
Daniel “DL” Laskiewicz became Bad Wolves’ lead vocalist in 2021, replacing Tommy Vext and ushering in a new era for the band. Daniel “DL” Laskiewicz, who played guitar with metalcore outfit The Acacia Strain from 2001 until 2013, brought extensive experience as both a guitarist and songwriter to his new role as frontman. His transition from instrumentalist to vocalist represented a significant career evolution and demonstrated his versatility as a musician.
Bad Wolves are currently recording their third studio album with DL in place as their new vocalist. The record is expected to be released later this year, which became Dear Monsters in October 2021. Laskiewicz’s debut album with the band showcased his ability to adapt Bad Wolves’ established sound while bringing his own creative input. The Los Angeles-based group – John Boecklin [drums], Doc Coyle [lead guitar, backing vocals], Chris Cain [rhythm guitar], and Kyle Konkiel [bass, backing vocals]—have accomplished the seemingly impossible. In 2021, Bad Wolves welcomed Daniel “DL” Laskiewicz, as lead vocalist, ushering in a new chapter with their third full-length, Dear Monsters. The album demonstrated the band’s continued evolution and Laskiewicz’s integration into their creative process.
Following Dear Monsters, Laskiewicz continued to establish his presence with the band on their fourth studio album, Die About It, released in 2023. His vocal contributions have helped maintain Bad Wolves’ commercial momentum while allowing them to explore new musical territories. During his time with The Acacia Strain, Laskiewicz was part of a pioneering metalcore act, gaining experience that has proven valuable in his current role. His background as a guitarist has also contributed to Bad Wolves’ songwriting process, bringing additional creative perspective to the band’s collaborative approach.
John Boecklin
John Boecklin stands as Bad Wolves’ founding drummer and longest-serving member, having co-founded the band in 2017 and remaining through all lineup changes. Bad Wolves was founded in 2017 by drummer John Boecklin (ex-DevilDriver). Boecklin’s extensive experience with metal heavyweight DevilDriver provided the foundation for Bad Wolves’ rhythmic power and professional approach to touring and recording.
My name is John Boecklin, and I play drums for the band Devildriver. I started playing drums at the age of fourteen and never looked back. Since 2003, I have toured the world and now have six records under my belt at the age of thirty-three. His twelve-year tenure with DevilDriver included participation in major festivals and tours, That summer, to this day, was the best of my life referring to Ozzfest 2004 where he performed alongside metal legends like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Slayer. On October 28, 2014, Dez Fafara announced that drummer John Boecklin and guitarist Jeff Kendrick left the band, the former going on to form the band, Bad Wolves.
Boecklin has appeared on all four Bad Wolves studio albums: Disobey (2018), N.A.T.I.O.N. (2019), Dear Monsters (2021), and Die About It (2023). Beyond drumming, he serves as a key songwriter and producer for the band. As drummer, songwriter, and producer for Bad Wolves, John Boecklin wears many hats. His production work has been particularly notable on recent albums, helping shape the band’s evolving sound. After leaving DevilDriver, Boecklin underwent extensive drum training with renowned instructor David Elitch, spending two and a half years rebuilding his technique from the ground up. His career overhaul involved far more than assembling a new band. He spent two-and-a-half years under the tutelage of renowned drummer and instructor David Elitch, formerly of The Mars Volta, who began by taking him back to the foundations — posture, breath, stick position, and attack. This dedication to improvement has contributed to his continued relevance and effectiveness as Bad Wolves’ rhythmic anchor.
Doc Coyle
Doc Coyle served as Bad Wolves’ lead guitarist from 2017 until his departure in April 2025, contributing to the band’s sound during their most commercially successful period. Doc Coyle began his foray into the music industry with New Jersey metal band, God Forbid. Humble beginnings that started in the late ’90s DIY hardcore scene progressed into a 15 year professional career with God Forbid releasing 6 full length albums on Century Media and Victory Records with sales over 300,000 globally. His extensive background with God Forbid provided him with significant touring and recording experience that proved invaluable to Bad Wolves.
God Forbid participated in the Rockstar Mayhem Festival along with Trivium, Bullet for My Valentine, Cannibal Corpse, All That Remains, Slayer, Marilyn Manson and many others, demonstrating Coyle’s experience with major festival performances. With God Forbid, Coyle established himself as a skilled guitarist and songwriter, contributing to multiple Billboard 200 charting albums before the band’s dissolution in 2013. I am sorry to say that I am indeed leaving God Forbid. I started playing with these guys since I was 16 years old. Now I’m 32, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career.
Coyle appeared on all four Bad Wolves studio albums during his tenure: Disobey (2018), N.A.T.I.O.N. (2019), Dear Monsters (2021), and Die About It (2023). Co-founding guitarist Doc Coyle shared the “bittersweet news” that he had quit the Los Angeles heavy metal outfit after nearly a decade. In his update, he wrote: “It was not an easy decision to make”. His departure in April 2025 marked the end of an eight-year association with the band. Beyond Bad Wolves, Coyle has maintained an active career as a musician and media personality, hosting “The Ex-Man with Doc Coyle” podcast and serving as a touring musician for various acts. Doc’s professional career experience expanded performing as a fill-in and touring guitarist for heavyweights Lamb of God on a tour opening for Metallica in 2009, as well as stints on bass guitar, filling in with Trivium in 2009, Unearth in 2012, lead guitar duty for Darkest Hour in 2017, 2nd guitar with Mark Morton of Lamb of God’s solo band in 2019.
Chris Cain
Chris Cain has served two separate tenures as Bad Wolves’ guitarist, first as an original member from 2017-2022, and again returning in 2025. Bad Wolves was founded in 2017 by drummer John Boecklin (ex-DevilDriver), vocalist Tommy Vext (ex-Divine Heresy, ex-Westfield Massacre), lead guitarist Doc Coyle (ex-God Forbid), rhythm guitarist Chris Cain (ex-Bury Your Dead, ex-For the Fallen Dreams), and bassist Kyle Konkiel. His background includes significant work with metalcore acts Bury Your Dead and For the Fallen Dreams, bringing hardcore and metalcore influences to Bad Wolves’ sound.
During his first tenure, Cain appeared on the band’s first three studio albums: Disobey (2018), N.A.T.I.O.N. (2019), and Dear Monsters (2021). On April 14, 2022, guitarist Chris Cain announced his departure from the band via Instagram, stepping away from touring and recording activities. His departure created an opening that was filled by returning member Max Karon, who had been involved in the band’s early formation but had stepped back from active membership.
In a twist of fate, the band announced that former guitarist Chris Cain would be rejoining Bad Wolves to replace Coyle—a move laden with emotional significance. Cain exited the group in 2022, making his return a form of “homecoming” as noted by the band’s members. His return in 2025 following Doc Coyle’s departure represents a reunion with his original bandmates and a continuation of his contribution to the band’s creative output. These changes leave Cain and Boecklin as the only two original members left in the band, highlighting his importance to the group’s identity and future direction. Prior to his Bad Wolves involvement, Cain’s work with Bury Your Dead helped establish him in the metalcore scene, where he developed the heavy, rhythmic guitar style that became part of Bad Wolves’ signature sound.
Kyle Konkiel
Kyle Konkiel served as Bad Wolves’ bassist from the band’s formation in 2017 until his departure in April 2025, contributing to all four of the band’s studio albums. Bad Wolves was founded in 2017 by drummer John Boecklin (ex-DevilDriver), vocalist Tommy Vext (ex-Divine Heresy, ex-Westfield Massacre), lead guitarist Doc Coyle (ex-God Forbid), rhythm guitarist Chris Cain (ex-Bury Your Dead, ex-For the Fallen Dreams), and bassist Kyle Konkiel (ex-In This Moment, ex-Scar the Martyr, Vimic). His extensive resume included work with notable metal acts In This Moment, Scar the Martyr, and Vimic, bringing considerable touring and recording experience to Bad Wolves.
Konkiel’s bass work appeared on Disobey (2018), N.A.T.I.O.N. (2019), Dear Monsters (2021), and Die About It (2023), providing the low-end foundation for the band’s evolving sound across multiple eras. His experience with In This Moment, a band known for their theatrical live performances and commercially successful albums, contributed to Bad Wolves’ professional approach to both studio work and live performances. The partnership with different vocalists and guitarists throughout his tenure demonstrated his adaptability as a bassist and bandmate.
Shortly after it was revealed that Coyle was leaving the group, it was also announced that bassist Kyle Konkiel was leaving the group as well. His departure in April 2025, coinciding with Doc Coyle’s exit, marked the end of an eight-year association with the band. After eight incredible years, I’ve decided to step down from Bad Wolves. This wasn’t an easy choice, but after much reflection, i know in my heart that I can no longer give this band 100%. And anything less wouldn’t be fair to the music, my bandmates, or the fans. Konkiel cited his inability to give full commitment to the band as the primary reason for his departure, expressing gratitude for his time with the group while acknowledging his need to pursue other creative directions.
AJ Rebollo
AJ Rebollo joined Bad Wolves as rhythm guitarist in 2024, initially touring with the band in 2023 before becoming a full-time member. Bad Wolves released a new song, “Knife,” alongside a lyric video. The song is out via Better Noise Music and features screaming vocals from AJ Rebollo. The song is significant for the band’s growth as Rebello, formerly of Issues, is now going to join as a full-time member. His background with the progressive metalcore band Issues brought a different musical perspective to Bad Wolves’ established sound.
Rebollo is known for his work in Issues, whom have been on hiatus since firing their frontman in 2020 amid several concerning allegations. Max Karon had most recently been serving as Bad Wolves’ rhythm guitarist, but departed the lineup earlier this year. His addition to Bad Wolves filled the void left by Max Karon’s departure from touring duties, though Karon remained as a songwriter. Near the end of January 2024, Bad Wolves officially welcomed former Issues guitarist AJ Rebollo into the band, with Rebollo having toured with the band in 2023 following the departure of Max Karon.
Rebollo’s first recorded contribution with Bad Wolves was the single “Knife,” where he provided both guitar work and screaming vocals, demonstrating his versatility as a musician. As the band’s newest member, Rebollo said the song and his work with the band meant a lot to him, having followed his new bandmates over the years. “I’m very stoked that I’ve been given the opportunity of joining up with the legends in Bad Wolves. I’ve been a fan of each of their bands since my early teens, so to say I’m honored to be playing with them would be an understatement”. His enthusiasm for joining the band reflects both his respect for his new bandmates’ previous work and his commitment to contributing to Bad Wolves’ continued evolution. With Issues on extended hiatus, Rebollo’s focus has shifted entirely to Bad Wolves, where he continues to contribute both instrumentally and vocally to their developing sound.
Max Karon
Max Karon holds a unique position in Bad Wolves history as both a founding member and returning guitarist who served in different capacities throughout the band’s evolution. Max Karon, known as the band’s original guitarist, has rejoined the band. Karon replaces Chris Cain, who played with the band from 2017 to 2022. According to the band’s press release, Karon founded the band in 2014 with drummer John Boecklin. His early involvement in the band’s formation predates their official 2017 launch and commercial breakthrough.
In addition, Karon has been involved in each of the band’s three studio albums as a composer and/or player. “It’s with great excitement that we announce our new permanent guitar player: Max Karon. The funny thing is that Max isn’t new to us, he started the band with founder John Boecklin in 2014 and was a major writer/player on all three Bad Wolves albums”. Despite not being a full-time touring member during the band’s initial commercial success, Karon’s songwriting contributions were instrumental in developing Bad Wolves’ musical identity across their first three albums: Disobey (2018), N.A.T.I.O.N. (2019), and Dear Monsters (2021).
Just a little over a year ago, original guitarist Max Karon rejoined Bad Wolves after Chris Cain exited the group. However, a few weeks ago Karon released a statement informing fans he would be stepping down from touring duties but would remain on as a songwriter. His decision to step back from touring while maintaining his songwriting role reflects his continued investment in the band’s creative process despite personal circumstances that made touring difficult. I have decided to step down as a touring member of Bad Wolves. I am still on board as a songwriter. I made this decision by myself and for myself after a great deal of soul searching and self reflection. My priorities are different and, for better or worse, I had to find that out in practice. This arrangement allowed the band to benefit from his creative input while accommodating his personal needs, leading to AJ Rebollo’s recruitment as the touring replacement guitarist.
Kevin Creekman
Kevin Creekman became Bad Wolves’ bassist in April 2025, replacing Kyle Konkiel as part of the significant lineup changes that also saw Chris Cain’s return to the band. Former guitarist Chris Cain returned to the band, while Kevin Creekman, who appeared in the band’s music video for the song Killing Me Slowly was announced as the band’s new bassist. Creekman also played bass with Vext’s solo band. His prior connection to the Bad Wolves universe through both the music video appearance and his work with former vocalist Tommy Vext’s solo project provided familiarity with the band’s musical approach.
In their own joint statement, the remaining members of Bad Wolves said: “Bad Wolves officially announce the departure of longtime guitarist Doc Coyle and bassist Kyle Konkiel as they step away to pursue new creative endeavours. In light of this change, original guitarist Chris Cain is rejoining Bad Wolves. His return marks a homecoming, bringing Cain’s signature energy and musicianship back into the fold for the first time since 2022. Additionally, the band welcomes Swiss-born Kevin ‘The Creekman’ Creekman as new bassist stepping in for Kyle Konkiel”. His Swiss background brings an international element to the band’s lineup, though specific details about his musical background prior to joining Bad Wolves remain limited in public information.
Creekman’s appointment represents the band’s commitment to moving forward with their fourth era, maintaining the core partnership of John Boecklin and Chris Cain while introducing fresh creative energy. His work with Tommy Vext’s solo band suggests familiarity with the heavy rock and metal style that characterizes Bad Wolves’ approach, potentially easing his integration into the band’s established sound. As the newest member of Bad Wolves, Creekman joins during a period of renewed focus and creative direction, with his contributions to future recordings and live performances yet to be fully realized but anticipated by the band’s fanbase.
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