Dropkick Murphys have released a video statement announcing an update for their upcoming St. Patrick’s Day Tour, which runs from February 21 – March 20:
Sadly, vocalist Al Barr’s mother was recently diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. Al, with the support of the band and his family, has made the difficult decision to not join Dropkick Murphys on the road for this run of dates, as well as the band’s upcoming summer European tour.
Vocalist Ken Casey will take lead for all songs on the St. Patrick’s Day Tour, with openers Jesse Ahern, Mikey Rivkees from The Rumjacks and Jen Razavi from The Bombpops joining him on vocals for certain songs.
Dropkick Murphys have released the following statement:
Hello everyone -
We've been hard at work rehearsing for the first St. Patrick's Day Tour in THREE YEARS.
This morning, we have very sad news to tell you. Over the last few months, Al's mother, Ingrid, has suffered a series of strokes. She has also been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. Al, his sister and wife have been caring for Ingrid round the clock for months. Please join all of us in holding Ingrid in your prayers.
Dropkick Murphys have always been about FAMILY. And in the spirit of FAMILY FIRST, Al has had to make the very difficult decision to stay home for the rest of the year to care for his Mom, so he will not be with us on the upcoming tour or in Europe this summer. We appreciate your compassion for Al's family, and we know as part of our family you will understand and support us in dealing with these difficult times.
THE SHOW WILL GO ON with Ken covering most of Al’s parts...along with some special guests like Jesse Ahern, Mikey Rivkees from The Rumjacks and Jen Razavi from The Bombpops joining us on vocals as well. Al will be cheering us on from home - and we will see each and every one of you starting next Monday when the tour kicks off in Reading, PA!!
Love,
Dropkick Murphys
Dropkick Murphys’ traditional St. Patrick’s Day Tour wraps with four St. Patrick’s Day week Boston hometown shows and will include support from The Bombpops and The Rumjacks on most dates, with Jesse Ahern opening each show. Jim Lindberg of Pennywise is confirmed as a special guest for the final show on March 20 at Roadrunner.
Dropkick Murphys are: Al Barr (lead vocals), Tim Brennan (guitars, accordion, mellotron, whistles, vocals), Ken Casey (lead vocals), Jeff DaRosa (banjo, bouzouki, mandolin, harmonica, acoustic guitars, vocals), Matt Kelly (drums, percussion, vocals), James Lynch (guitar, vocals), Kevin Rheault (touring bassist) and Lee Forshner (touring bagpipe player).
For more information, please visit: www.DropkickMurphys.com.
