Goose drummer Jeff Arevalo hits back at band after firing for “behaviour in personal life”

nme.com:

Dave Matthews, Vampire Weekend and Dead & Company.Back in January, the multi-instrumentalist took a “mental health break” from touring with them amid a “personal crisis”, but later found his temporary exit had been made permanent without his knowledge.Yesterday (March 24), the ‘Hungersite’ artists took to Instagram to announce Arevalo would no longer be a part of the Goose organization, after being “made aware of behavior in Jeff’s personal life”.The band did not provide details on what triggered the decision, but wrote that it was an “incredibly unfortunate, unexpected situation”, adding: “It is clear that this is the only way forward as we remain committed to upholding the values that define our community, particularly when it comes to respecting others and creating a safe environment.A post shared by Goose (@goosetheband)“This past tour was an unexpected challenge to navigate, but through it all, the four of us forged a deeper connection on and off stage.

We’re feeling inspired to continue growing as a unit as we move into this next chapter, and are deeply grateful for everyone with us on this journey.”Today, Arevalo responded, taking to social media to say that while he was “extremely grateful” for the time spent with the progressive-rock outfit, and agreed they should both go separate ways, he felt frustrated at being under-utilised.He reflected on his mental health break from earlier in the year when he pursued a program in Washington, where he studied “emotional issues” and spoke with counsellors. “I journaled daily, wrote poetry, and played music with my roommate,” he wrote. “The idea of a new and limitless future became much more enticing to me than returning to ‘the organization.’A post shared by Jeffrey.