Vanna guitarist/vocalist Evan Pharmakis and drummer Chris Campbell have quit the band to “pursue a home life.” Statements from the departing members and a video announcement from the group is below.
The band has added guitarist/vocalist Joel Pastuszak, and will have a fill-in drummer until a permanent replacement is found.
Pharmakis stated, “I’m sad to say that as of now I will no longer be a part of Vanna. I’ve decided that due to my current situation and not being able to fully support myself after seven years of hard work, it’s time to start taking responsibility for my life, and move on. This band has grown a lot over the years and with growth comes change. When we started Vanna it was because we loved playing music, and once it developed it was this balance of writing what we loved while still creating music that all our fans would enjoy. Mixing business into that equation is a difficult task, and with five completely different personalities it’s a hard act to balance. I’ve been struggling for the last two years trying to make it work for me and my life, and as much as I love it, I have to let it go.
Campbell commented, “After two full length records, an EP, countless US tours, 3 incredible European tours I will no longer be playing drums in Vanna. I absolutely love playing music, and will continue to play but, it’s time for me to move forward with my life. Vanna fans are some of the most die-hard music fans I’ve ever had the privilege of being involved with. Everything has been for you guys. Thanks to everyone who came to a show, bought a cd, or just hung out. It was rad.”