Abbotsford new-wave band You Say Party! We Say Die!, whom have recently suffered the loss of friend and drummer Devon Clifford due to a brain hemorrhage, have released their first public statement regarding the future of the band.
Firstly, they have decided to continue as a band, renamed You Say Party out of respect for Devon's death. Krista Loewen, their keyboardist and vocalist, has decided to quit the band. Robert Andow and Bobby Siadat from Vancouver band Gang Violence will join as part of the live line-up, although it's uncertain at this time if they will become permanent members.
Nothing but love and well-wishes from my end will go towards the band, recently long-listed for the prestigious Polaris Music Prize for artistic merit for their latest album XXXX. Their message of love, hope and renewal seems particularly pertinent now.
Here's a short excerpt of their statement. For the full thing, go to their website.In the time between Devon’s passing and this statement, we have all reflected upon our personal lives. Krista has decided that her time with us has come to an end as she no longer desires the long drives, poor sleeps and revolting selection of road food. Instead she’s choosing a home, a garden, some gluten-free baking and a proper education. We will miss Krista very much and she remains a part of our lives.
We have turned to our good friends and former tour-mates Robert Andow and Bobby Siadat of Vancouver band “Gang Violence” to play keyboards and drums This new line up will continue the tradition of excellent live shows and sweaty dance floors, with new strength and a renewed commitment to music and touring. The 5 of us look forward to carrying the spirit of our friend Devon with us everywhere.
The cancelled European tour is being rescheduled for this fall and we will announce the dates as soon as possible. We are also planning select shows for the rest of 2010.
Out of respect for Devon and the evolution of life, today we announce that we will no longer be known as “You Say Party! We Say Die!” but instead as simply “You Say Party”.