After playing together for more than 10 years, post-hardcore veterans Funeral For A Friend have parted ways with Ryan Richards, their longtime friend and bandmate. The band has announced that Pat Lundy from British Metalcore band Rise To Remain will be picking up the sticks.
Funeral for a Friend rose to international attention with Casually Dressed & Deep In Conversation, which was the soundtrack to many of our early teen years. The split seems to have been done totally on good terms and there appears to be no animosity whatsoever with either party. The band released a statement wishing Richards nothing but the best:
“Hey everyone, so by now you would have heard the news that Ryan has decided to leave the band. He’s a rad dude and we wish him all the best for the future.”
Richards also released a full statement to fans via the band’s Facebook:
Hey everyone
After ten wonderful, enriching, emotional and fascinating years being a part of Funeral for a Friend – I’ve decided to hang up my drum sticks (or at least put them in a box, which is probably more practical).
As the old romantic cliche’ goes – ‘it’s not you, it’s me’. Being in this band has made each and every one of my dreams come true (bleeeurgh..I know) and I thank all of you for being part of that.
I’ve come to the age of 32, which I’ve always considered the age at which most footballers become rubbish, so it felt like a good age to bow out.
I’ve always put music first in my life – but the time has come now for my family to take the top spot, after patiently waiting and supporting me for the last 10 years and more.
Although this has been a really tough decision, it’s been made infinitely easier through the support and understanding of Matt, Kris, Gav & Rich – who I wish all the success their talents and hard work deserve.
I’m also stoked to have my good friend Pat Lundy step into my vacant drumstool and to take things to the next level. There’s not a better drummer than Pat for the job, and I hope you make him feel as welcome as you made me for the last 10 years.
I’m leaving the band, but I’m glad to say that I’m still living and breathing music full-time as an artist manager, alongside some of the great people who have been instrumental in the career of FFAF from day one.
So yeah..that’s it from me.Thanks for listening – not just today, but for the last 10 years.
It will be back to business as usual for the band, who are currently working on their yet-to-be-named album, which will mark their sixth studio album following 2011’s Welcome Home Armageddon.
