Earlier this morning, an announcement was shared via the Biffy Clyro social media accounts that bassist James Johnston would not be joining the band on the upcoming tours. The message, from James, shared the news that he has been struggling with mental health problems, which have led to addiction issues. Deciding to address the problems that he has attempted to conceal, he has sought professional help and is undergoing treatment.
When we spoke in November, he was visibly excited about the band’s return to Australia after an eight-year absence. Although it is a huge disappointment that he won’t be visiting Australia and New Zealand with Simon Neil and his brother, Ben Johnston, in April, he must prioritise his health and wellbeing. The bassist’s duties will be taken on by Naomi Macleod, familiar to Biffy fans through her work in Neil’s side-project, Empire State Bastard.
We wish James all the very best for his recovery and ongoing health, and look forward to welcoming him back to the stage when he is ready.
Tickets for Sydney and Brisbane (Melbourne is sold out) are available for Biffy’s Australian tour in April here
Photo credit: Eva Pentel
