Chris Walla To Exit Death Cab

Both sides of the departure coin are playing it cool with remaining band members wishing Walla “all the best” while the guitarist thanks his soon to be former bandmates.

First up are Death Cab’s Ben Gibbard, Nick Harmer and Jason McGerr.

“We’ve had an incredible 17 years of making music with Chris and are very proud of what we’ve accomplished together, including our eighth studio album which we have just put the finishing touches on.  We will miss Chris and wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career. We’re excited about sharing new music, and seeing all of you very soon.”

Yet to have a name, that next album is scheduled for an early 2015 release and will be supported by extensive touring.

Now it’s Walla’s turn.

“I will miss being a quarter of this band, and will support whatever course Death Cab For Cutie chooses from here.  I am profoundly grateful to Ben, Nick and Jason for the experiences that define my adult life.  Truly grateful, beyond words.  Thank you.”

The last stop on Death Cab’s tour is the Rifflandia Music Festival in Victoria, British Columbia, taking place at various venues Sept. 11-14.  Today’s announcement hints at a “very special headline performance” for Rifflandia.

Here’s the schedule:
Aug. 15 – Dallas, Texas, Gexa Energy Pavilion (The Happy Funtime Festival)
Aug. 16 – Omaha, Neb., Stinson Park @ Aksarben Village (Maha Music Festival)
Aug. 30 – Calgary, Alberta, Fort Calgary Historic Park  (X-Fest)
Aug.  31 – Edmonton, Alberta, Northlands Grounds (Sonic Boom)
Sept. 5 – Chicago, Ill., The Hideout (A.V. Fest)
Sept. 7 – Toronto, Ontario, Downsview Park (Riot Fest & Travelling Exposition)
Sept. 11-14 – Victoria, British Columbia, (Rifflandia Music Festival (schedule TBA))

Head on over to DeathCabForCutie.com for more information.