Death Cab for Cutie co-founder Chris Walla is making a big announcement after 17 years. Chris is leaving the band. The multi-instrumentalist and producer made the announcement Wednesday, explaining that he "[longs] for the unknown." Walla says he's "grateful, beyond words" for his time with the band, and is proud of everything they did together. That includes the group's just-finished eighth album, which is due out early next year. Chris will stay on board to play the already scheduled shows through September 13th. His plans for after Death Cab? He says he intends to continue making music, producing records, and "erring on the side of benevolence and beauty whenever possible." The rest of Death Cab for Cutie issued their own statement, wishing Walla the best in the next chapter of his career. The guys say they they will miss their bandmate, but add that they're "very proud" of what they accomplished together over "an incredible 17 years of making music."

Death Cab for Cutie's upcoming festival appearances:
8/15 -- KXT's Summer Cut -- Dallas, TX
8/16 -- Maha Music Festival -- Omaha, NE
8/30 -- XFest -- Calgary, AB
8/31 -- Sonic Boom Festival -- Edmonton, AB
9/05 -- Hideout Block Party / Onion & A.V. Fest -- Chicago, IL
9/07 -- Riot Fest -- Toronto, ON
9/13 -- Rifflandia Music Festival -- Victoria, BC

 

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