Music

Coheed and Cambria part ways with bassist Michael Todd

by Tyler Munro

In breaking news that should surprise absolutely nobody, Coheed and Cambria announced yesterday that they’ve decided to part ways with bassist Michael Todd. Todd was arrested for armed robbery last month after he threatened a Walgreens pharmacist with a bomb and fled with six bottles of pain pills, all of this just hours before a gig.

The decision couldn’t have been an easy one—Todd had been in the band since their early days as Shabutie in the late 90s—but it’s probably the best for both parties. Todd had suffered in the past with addiction and a clean break from the industry could give him some time to look after himself and, if he’s formally charged, serve his sentence. Coheed and Cambria talked about the split in an official statement posted on their tumblr, which you can read in full below:

After a lot of thought, introspection and discussion, Coheed and Cambria will be continuing our journey without bassist Michael Todd. We have spoken to him and this is a mutual decision between both parties. Michael was a great contributor; our hearts go out to his family and to all those who appreciate his talents. We wish him nothing but the very best.

We are currently writing and recording songs for a new album, as well as a couple compilations this fall. We are very excited about how the songs are shaping up and can’t wait to share them with you.

We’d like to thank Wes Styles for filling in for the live gigs in the interim, including the upcoming South America and Mexico shows. A belated thanks to Rob Gill for covering in Boston; and the biggest thank you to all of you for your unwavering support.

A new chapter awaits.

Love,

Coheed and Cambria

A tumultuous time, for sure, but perhaps the start of a new chapter for the band. Literally, actually, since their last album (2010’s Year of the Black Rainbow) marked the end of their extended Armory Wars series of albums.