Drummer Michael McDermott Leaves the Bouncing Souls

Michael McDermott can be found on the far right.

BY Gregory AdamsPublished Jun 25, 2013

After drumming for New Jersey punks the Bouncing Souls for over a dozen years, Michael McDermott has announced he's left the band.

The news came today (June 25) via the punk percussionist's Facebook account, and it appears to be amicable split. "I've decided to spread my wings and fly," he wrote. "I wanna thank anyone who's ever worked with the band. and especially my 3 brothers in musical arms.mad love.respect!"

McDermott joined the band following the release of Hopeless Romantic in 1999, replacing longtime skinsman Shal Khichi. McDermott's first LP with the troupe was 2001's How I Spent My Summer Vacation, and he capped his run with the group on last year's Comet.

The Bouncing Souls followed up the announcement with a statement of their own that wishes McDermott good luck. At present time, it doesn't appear if they have a replacement drummer in mind.

"It has been an amazing 13 and a half years," they wrote. "We love you and wish you all the best! Here's to the memories! We don't know what's next (we never have!) but we know its gonna be rad! Onto the future!"

The Bouncing Souls are currently on tour in Europe until next week, and presumably McDermott is finishing the trip. The act also have a few summer and fall gigs booked in the U.S. You can see their schedule over here.

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