Of Mice & Men issue statement about Austin Carlile's departure

December 31, 2016

Following the departure of lead singer Austin Carlile, Of Mice & Men's official website has posted a statement from the remaining four members, which you can read below:

“It's with heavy hearts that we announce Austin’s departure from the band for reasons pertaining to his health. As many of you are aware, Austin suffers from a rare connective tissue disorder called Marfan syndrome & has been struggling with the physical demands of touring since the band began. After his most recent series of surgeries at Stanford University Hospital, following the cancellation of our European headlining tour, his team of doctors informed him of the damage that performing, & more specifically his aggressive vocals, have been causing his body. They warned that if he were to continue on doing so, it would cause permanent & irrevocable damage to his spine & nervous system. Following the advice from his team of specialists, Austin decided it best that he step away from the band & change his lifestyle to better his health. Though we're heartbroken that he can no longer continue, his health has always been of utmost importance to us & we support him now in this decision & are proud of his perseverance over the years. We've had an amazing & unforgettable past few years making music & touring the world together & the 4 of us look forward to sharing the next chapter of the band's story with you. All previously announced shows will proceed as planned & we thank you for your continued love & support. We couldn't do this without all of you! See you real soon. -Aaron, Alan, Phil & Valentino”

Of Mice & Men are scheduled to perform their first show next year at Download Festival June 9-11 in the UK and headed on a European tour later that month.

Watch more: APMAs 2016 Rehearsal Interview: OF MICE & MEN