Funeral For A Friend have issued a statement on their new lineup adjustment following the departure of guitarist Darran Smith. The band comments:
“So by now you’ve all heard the news that our beloved Darran Smith aka Smicko / Big Bobby D / Bobby Dazzler / The Smickster / Ol’ Smickarelli is leaving us for pastures new. I can tell you that the D-Man has greatly appreciated your warm messages of support and well wishes, and is looking as forward as the rest of us to making sure that his remaining shows with us will be something special to remember for him, us and you.”
“Of course – you guys won’t be the only ones who are going to miss “The Smickster”. We can all sincerely say that it’s been a pleasure and a privilege to share some of the best years and best times of our life with Darran, and we’ll always treasure the great music and great times that we shared. We join you guys in wishing Darran all the best for the future and urge you all to come out at Sonisphere and give him the farewell he deserves.”
“As for the future of FFAF?”
“Although the news from Darran has come out of the blue for you guys, it’s actually something he decided on a little while ago. During this time we’ve been hard at work on album number 5, which although it has been written without Darran, it’s been given his complete blessing and approval – which means the world to us. We’ve got so much more to share with you when the time is right, so keep your eyes peeled this week for some exciting news on Darran’s farewell and the future of FFAF.”
“For those of you wondering who will be stepping into Darran’s jet black shoes? Well, you already know the fella.”
“Step forward Mr Gavin Burrough. You all know Gav as the big fella who’s been melting your hearts and faces for the last couple of years while playing bass for us. Some of you with longer memories might remember Gav tearing it up on his beloved six string guitar as a founding member of both ‘Hondo Maclean’ and ‘The Future’. As great as it’s been having Gav on bass for the last couple of years, he’s still never really “gotten over” his first love – his guitar. Suffice it to say, Gav’s contribution to the new record and interplay with Kris has been mind-blowing and we can’t wait for you all to hear it.”
“So this left us with a dilemma. Do we: 1) Continue without a bassist and go for that “White Stripes” sound and write an album of ‘7 Nation Army’ rip offs? or 2) Go out and find ourselves a fantastically talented Nordic looking bassist with locks of gold and a penchant for good curry and crap jokes?”
“We chose option 2. Welcome Richard Boucher. You’re gonna love him. He’s SO good on bass that we let someone with blonde hair join our band. That ought to be an indication of how great he is. He’s a bit tasty on the guitar as well actually, and has been contributing some great material in that area too. The creative well is well and truly overflowing. Exciting times.”