Fallujah and longtime drummer Andrew Baird parted ways earlier this week. While not a founding member, Baird played with Fallujah since 2007 and has performed on every single one of the band's records. Founding guitarist (and only founding member left) Scott Carstairs has now commented on Baird leaving the band, saying he'll miss his friend dearly but that Fallujah will carry on.
"Regarding Andrew's departure from Fallujah: Though I am sad that my musical partner of 15 years is stepping away, I support my brother in any decision he makes to improve his life. I've never felt more musically connected to anyone in my life, so naturally this has been difficult. Andrew will always have a place in this project we built together, and I'll hold out hope that we will create music together again.
"That being said, I'd love to address my endless inbox of messages asking what will happen next and I'll just say this. There is a reason why by the time I was 30 I had already written and recorded 5 full length albums and 2 EPs. The same reason why after 20 years of playing music I still pick up my guitar every day and continue the world. I love through the music and it lives through me. It goes beyond love and passion. If I'm breathing, I am creating. For many or for nobody, it's what I do.
"Big love to everyone who has stuck with us through this journey. I'm knee deep in new material that the team and I can't wait to show you."
As of now, Fallujah is Carstairs, vocalist Kyle Schaefer who joined in 2022, and bassist Evan Brewer who also joined in 2022. Upon leaving the band, Baird issued the following statement: "It's with very heavy heart, that I have decided to step down as drummer of Fallujah. This was a decision that I didn't make lightly, and a lot of thought was put into this for quite awhile now.
"We've done a whole lot together, and they were there for me when I was going through some of the toughest moments of my life. The band has shaped me in so many ways, that I can't even begin to write down all of them in this post. And I'm very privileged and grateful for the opportunities to take our talent and music around the world for everyone to enjoy.
"Don't worry, I love the hell out of those boys, I'm not done being a musician, and I'm definitely not done tearing shit up. But right now I need to make a course adjustment that my heart has been really needing.
"I know this isn't easy to read, or to understand. I'm doing what I feel is best, and I thank you for your immeasurable support. I'm still here and this isn't the last. Love ya."
