Joanna Gruesome have announced that singer Alanna McArdle has parted ways with the band, as well as confirming a new line-up and upcoming tour.
McArdle, who also records music under the solo moniker of Ides, cited “mental health problems” as the reason for her quitting the group. In a statement posted to the band’s official Facebook page, McArdle says: “Lately, my mental health problems have become a lot worse and I’ve gone through a pretty shitty time. I’ve realised I need to actually take some time out to focus on some kind of ‘recovery’, so I won’t be singing in Joanna Gruesome any more.”
The singer continues: “I hate to sound cheesy but the time I had in [the band] was life-changing. I made friends with so many amazing people, had the chance to play with some of my favourite bands, went to places I’d never been before (metaphysically and geographically) and pissed off a lot of men in the process. I am really proud of everything I’ve done with the band, especially [new album] ‘Peanut Butter’, and I think we’ve made some really great records. Thanks to everyone who ever put up with me on tour, and anyone who stopped any assholes from hurting other people at our shows.”
The band, who describe McArdle as “the most amazing vocalist/person/band member/gruesome we could have ever asked for”, released an additional statement confirming that Alanna will be replaced by two members: Kate Stonestreet from the band Pennycress and Roxy Brennan of Trust Fund, Grubs, Two White Cranes and Towel. Joanna Gruesome will tour the UK with their new look line-up, with those dates listed in full below.
The band’s second LP ‘Peanut Butter’ was released in May, the follow-up to 2013 debut ‘Weird Sister’. In November 2014, Joanna Gruesome won the Welsh Music Prize for ‘Weird Sister’.
Joanna Gruesome play:
Manchester Islington Mill (September 18)
Newcastle Head Of Steam (19)
Leeds Brudenell Social Club (20)
London Scala (22)
Edinburgh Summerhall (23)
Glasgow Glad Cafe (24)
Hebden Bridge Trades Club (25)
Cardiff Clwb Ifor Bach (26)
Brighton The Haunt (29)