“To our amazing fans and Hooligans around the world, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the departure of Michael Bohn.” rock band Issues released today in their official statement.
As of today, co-vocalist Michael Bohn is no longer a member of the band. Bohn has been a member of Issues from their start in 2012. The band has released to full length albums with Bohn, including their self-titled debut LP and Headspace.
“We are all aware of how the internet rumor machine tends to spin its web, but the whole truth behind this amicable yet difficult decision to part is that our band is developing musically in a direction that put us at odds with each other creatively. Though sometimes beautiful in its contrast, the bigger picture began to be artistically irreconcilable.” the band said.
The rumor of Bohn’s removal from the band began around a month ago with the removal of Issues in his social profiles as well as his lack of documented participation in the band’s current studio work.
Bohn was responsible for a majority of the harsh vocals for Issues, giving them heavier tones. Without Bohn, it can be suspected that the band is heading in a new direction for their sound.
The band said, “This is NOT a move to become a bubblegum pop act. We’re going to continue to do what we always have done, and write exactly what we want. We will continue to play older material and will delegate screaming parts live.”
“I love Michael with every fiber of my being, and never wanna see him give up on the industry, I also never wanna see any of our fans give up on him.” Vocalist Tyler Carter said in his personal statement, “I know this is going to hit some people hard, but I hope you will focus on the most important part of what Issues has and always will be; the music.”
Bohn also released a personal statement on the matter;
“Well, here I am typing up a statement I never thought I’d have to type. There’s so much I could say but I’m gonna do my best to keep it short and to the point. First off, I want to make it clear that I did not leave ISSUES. It was brought to my attention that the band wanted to go in a different direction and that they would be moving on without me. As devastating as this news was and has been these past couple months, I am excited for what the future holds. I am teaming up with Kevin Hanson (ex Woe, Is Me) for my new project. We have been writing for a little over a month and I have no plans on quitting music.
As for the fans, I cannot thank you enough for the love and support. So much respect to every fan around the world. You have made my time in ISSUES a dream come true. I’ve been to places I only dreamed about as a kid and couldn’t even fathom that I’d go. I have made countless memories in that band that will stay with me forever and learned a lot about life, people, and music. I truly hate that my time has come to an end in ISSUES but I’m going to make the best of it. Sorry we made you guys wait and wonder what’s going on but we wanted to be as professional as possible about this. Here’s to making the most of 2018! Much love,”
The complete statements can be read here.
