Biffy Clyro bassist/vocalist, etc. James Johnston has announced he will be sitting out the band’s immediate touring to address his mental health and addiction issues. He shared a statement regarding his plans to focus on himself over the coming months, having already sought out professional help. That statement was issued today, December 15th, and reads:
“To everyone,
I am heartbroken to let you know that will I not be joining the band on the upcoming tours. For some time, I have been living with mental health problems which have led to addiction issues that I have kept concealed for a long time. This has caused significant problems for myself and everyone around me – the time has come to properly address my illnesses and deal with them.
I am extremely sorry to Simon & Ben and thank them for their continued love, patience, support
and understanding throughout this time.I have recently started to receive the professional help I need and would like to reassure you all that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
To all our fans, your support means so much to me and in the meantime, our dear friend Naomi Macleod will be taking care of bass
duties, and I cannot think of a better person for the job.With love,
James x”
Macleod and Biffy Clyro vocalist/guitarist Simon Neil have previously spent time on the road together as part their grindcore collective Empire State Bastard.
