Will Iced Earth Reunite – Schaffer Decision
Introduction
In this post, I talk about whether an Iced Earth reunion is even possible. I go into Jon Schaffer turning down big money, Stu Block’s exit and how things fell apart, and what’s happening now. Ashes of Ares is on tour with their new album The New Messiah, and Matt Barlow is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Dark Saga. So, the big question is: could Matt ever reunite with Jon for one more Iced Earth run? I also show off the Iced Earth CDs I own below—none of them are for sale. Some of what I cover comes from Jon’s recent interview on Podcast of the Wicked.
Link to Jon Interview on podcast of the wicked - Click Here!
Link To My Video - Click Here!
Schaffer January 6th legal problems
Jon Schaffer pleaded guilty to two felony charges tied to the January 6 attack: obstruction of an official proceeding and entering a restricted building while armed. He avoided prison largely because he cooperated with prosecutors, taking a plea deal. His sentence? Three years of supervised probation, 120 hours of community service, and a small restitution payment. His lawyer, Marc Victor, argued he was “misled” and emphasized his early acceptance of responsibility, but critics say he gave in too easily. But we all know Jon would get pardoned by Trump in 2025. Which I thought all of this was complete bs.
Stu Block exit
Stu left Iced earth in early 2021. Who was in the band from 2011 to 2021. Stu sang on Dystopia, Plague of Babylon, and Incorruptible, Stu had a good voice, and I thought he was alright in Iced Earth. I have several of his era of CDs. But when January 6th happened. Stu went from a supportive brother to someone who didn't stand by what Jon did and kind of buried Jon. Shortly after January 6th happened, the band broke up and went on a hiatus since then. While Jon was dealing with his issues from January 6th.
Jon talked about this and in interviews apologized to all the people that were affected by Jon's actions that day. But in a way, Jon also said what Stu did, I don't want to say this, but he made a poser move but to be honest with you, Stu's choice was a poser's choice. Which Stu wasn't happy about afterwards. I guess we can say just like Ripper, that mean no Stu Block return to iced earth.
Jon Schaffer turning down good money
Jon Schaffer got pardoned shortly after when Trump took over on January 20th of 2025 as president of The United States. But since then, Jon hasn't done any new music. Jon basically has done podcasts, and interviews. Jon also works a regular job. But Jon said he was offered good money to reform iced earth, Jon said the timing isn't right and turned it down. Which iced earth is Jon's band in the end. I have heard Jon talks about some Iced Earth rereleases like Glorious Burden with Barlow, or sons of liberty rereleases. So maybe in time Jon might decide to do some iced earth stuff or maybe not. Time will tell.
🎸 Recent Jon Schaffer / Iced Earth Releases
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A Narrative Soundscape — Jon’s reimagining of Iced Earth songs using only lyrics and new instrumentals
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Hellrider / I Walk Among You EPs — updated tracks featuring Tim “Ripper” Owens and Matt Barlow
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Tribute to the Gods — limited edition gold-embossed box set for collectors
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Iced Earth – 30th Anniversary Edition — remixed/remastered version of the debut album - (remixed/remastered, released Dec 18, 2020)
Barlow Return? On Tour With Ashes of Ares
Which if Jon wants to do iced earth turns out Matt is down with returning to Iced Earth. Matt Barlow is doing a 30th anniversary to Dark Saga with Ashes of Ares, which Jon is fine with, but Dark saga isn't 30 years old yet until next year in 2026. Burnt offering is 30 years old as of now. But Matt and Freddie are playing with Ashes of Ares with guest members. Which is Matt current band since 2012 and doing iced earth songs that Matt used to play with the band as the singer. They are on tour now and sounding great. Matt Barlow hasn't lost a step. Which is great. Ashes of Ares is one of my favorite bands and has a new album called New Messiahs, which was released on August 8th, and I love the song of keep on walking. Matt sounds great on that song, and the new album is great. So, with Matt playing tons of Iced earth with Ashes of Ares, when Jon is ready, Matt can come back and sound amazing like he does now. Never say never.
Closing Thoughts
You have learned about Jon legal battles, and if Jon will ever bring back iced earth one day. I guess we will have to wait and see. Iced Earth was an amazing band, and I would love to see a return for the band. Definitely if it's with Matt Barlow, who is kicking ass on tour with Ashes of Ares. So, maybe Jon will change in mind one day. But if not, I get it and totally understand. I just wish one day Iced Earth and Jon Schaffer will get the respect they deserve. Let me know you're thoughts in the comments below. Rock on \m/
Iced Earth CDs I Own
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In this post, I talk about whether an Iced Earth reunion is even possible. I go into Jon Schaffer turning down big money, Stu Block’s exit and how things fell apart, and what’s happening now. Ashes of Ares is on tour with their new album The New Messiah, and Matt Barlow is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Dark Saga. So, the big question is: could Matt ever reunite with Jon for one more Iced Earth run? I also show off the Iced Earth CDs I own below—none of them are for sale. Some of what I cover comes from Jon’s recent interview on Podcast of the Wicked.
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