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A hardcore rock band from New Jersey has announced their dissolution following allegations of severe misconduct by their guitarist, including the misappropriation of band funds for extensive OnlyFans subscriptions just weeks before their scheduled Coachella appearance.
The band Gel made the announcement through a detailed social media statement on Wednesday, confirming they would not fulfill any of their upcoming performance commitments.
The group accused former guitarist Anthony Webster of committing actions that devastated both the band’s operations and its members personally, making it impossible for them to continue performing together.
“It’s affected us as human beings more than we can even attempt to explain, to the point of being completely unable to do the band anymore,” the post continued.
Gel have officially broken up, citing "irreparable damage" done to the band by former guitarist Anthony Webster.
Full statement below. pic.twitter.com/fvDDXDP4mk
— State of the Scene (@SOTSPodcast) March 19, 2025
The ensemble, which included vocalist Sami Kaiser, bassist Matthew Bobko, guitarist Madison Nave, drummer Alex Salter, and Webster, detailed serious allegations against their former guitarist. According to the band, Webster gained exclusive control of their financial accounts and allegedly misused tens of thousands of dollars for personal expenses, including rent, food deliveries, and notably, what they described as “a truly unbelievable number of OnlyFans purchases and mysterious CashApp transactions likely in the same lane.”
Further accusations against Webster include the unauthorized distribution of other band members’ private photographs on Reddit, an action that was reportedly traced back to him due to poor attempts at concealment.
The remaining members expressed their frustration, comparing their experience with Webster to an abusive relationship, explaining how their passion for the music had kept them together despite the difficulties.
“It’s not so easy to just give something up that you care so much about, especially pressures from outside organizations, people, etc. that are all counting on you in some way. We wish that this could have all been easier, and we wish that it didn’t have to end this way.”
Gel breaking up because of this (on top of many other things) Jesus Christ pic.twitter.com/vUPSbUICrb
— Nika (@nikaulrich) March 19, 2025
The band’s dissolution has created ripple effects throughout the music industry, forcing several tours to modify their lineups. Gel had recently completed an Australian tour and was scheduled to perform at prestigious events, including Coachella’s Sunday lineup alongside Post Malone.
Their upcoming commitments included tours with Canadian metal band Spiritbox and appearances with Anxious in Delaware and the United Kingdom. They were also slated to support Danish band Volbeat during a European tour.
The group, which originated in New Jersey in 2018 as an offshoot of Sick S–t, concluded their announcement with gratitude to their supporters: “Thank you so much to the friends we’ve made over the years, and thank you so much to our fans for always being there for us and showing us how much you care. Take care of each other, and love your friends.”
The Tsunami Sea North American Tour will proceed without Gel to its predominantly sold-out venues, beginning in April.
