Taking Back Sunday’s Mark O’Connell quits band after 24 years: “It wasn’t an easy decision, and wasn’t entirely my own”

nme.com:

Taking Back Sunday drummer Mark O’Connell has left the band after 24 years, saying that it “wasn’t an easy decision” and not “entirely [his] own”.O’Connell replaced original drummer Steven DeJoseph in the US band, following the release of their self-titled debut EP (2000).The group underwent numerous line-up changes before landing on Adam Lazzara (vocals), John Nolan (guitar, vocals), Eddie Reyes (guitar), Shaun Cooper (bass) and O’Connell.

Reyes departed TBS in 2018 due to “personal reasons”.Yesterday (January 7), O’Connell told fans that he had quit Taking Back Sunday in a statement on social media.“After nearly 25 years as the drummer of Taking Back Sunday, I want to confirm that I am no longer with the band,” he began. “It’s taken me some time to address this.

Thank you for your patience as I’ve reflected on how to share my story.”O’Connell continued: “First, I want to thank the fans – your love and support have meant everything to me.

You’ve been the heartbeat of TBS, and a huge part of my life for nearly a quarter of a century. I owe it all to you.”The musician went on to say that his “departure wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t entirely my own” before opening up about what had been going on in his life recently.A post shared by Mark O'Connell (@markoconnelltbs)“Over the past few years, I’ve focused on my family and personal growth, including committing to my sobriety,” he wrote.