Photo: Shervin Lainez / Bradley Hale

American Indie Heroes Minus The Bear Have Announced They’re Breaking Up

It’s a sad day for indie fans, as Seattle band Minus The Bear have announced that they’re breaking up after being together for 18 years.

In a statement on Facebook, the band announced that they are calling it a day but not before one final American tour.

“After almost two decades of writing and touring the world together, we have decided to close this chapter of our lives as Minus the Bear,” the statement reads.

“What started as a silly inside joke inside the dingy confines of Seattle’s original Cha Cha Lounge back in 2001 quickly snowballed into years of adventures, creativity, and friendship. We could have never predicted the wild journey about to begin. We’ve accomplished so much over the past 17 years, and we are grateful for the experience.”

In an interview with Stereogum, the band addressed why exactly now was the right time to part ways.

“Sometimes it feels like a natural time to step away, and that’s what we’re doing right now as opposed to continuing on and maybe not having the same drive or enthusiasm that we once did,” said guitarist Dave Knudson. “For all the fans that have seen and supported us, we won’t diminish that legacy or experience for them.”

Minus The Bear’s last, and ultimately final, Australian tour happened in August last year, in support of their final album VOIDS.

RIP Minus The Bear, you will be missed. Read their full statement below.

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