Goose percussionist/multi-instrumentalist Jeff Arevalo has announced he will stop touring with the band to prioritize his mental health.
“After much reflection, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from current touring to focus on my mental health and personal issues,” he wrote in a note to fans. “As much as I love making music and being on stage, I’ve come to realize that in order to continue giving my best to loved ones, to the band and to all of you, I need to take this time to reset, heal, and prioritize my well-being. I truly appreciate your understandaing and support.”
Along with Arevalo’s announcement, Goose members Rick Mitarotonda, Peter Anspach, Trevor Weekz, and Cotter Ellis expressed support for their bandmate, writing, “Everyone’s well-being is the most important thing right now. We are grateful for the community’s understanding as Jeff takes time for himself. We appreciate the support and ask that you respect his privacy.”
This news arrives after a few years of exponential growth for Goose. The Connecticut-based indie groove outfit rose to new heights with the release of its 2022 album Dripfield and has continued to climb the jam band ranks while carving out a niche all its own, though the road to success has not been without its bumps. The group parted ways with original drummer Ben Atkind in December 2023. He was later replaced by Ellis.
Goose just confirmed a new album, Everything Must Go, its first since Dripfield and the first to showcase the new lineup. The band also recently announced its first headline concert at Madison Square Garden and will make its debut at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival this spring.
Though surprising, Arevalo’s departure is not unique among touring bands. Many musicians have made similar decisions in recent years, including Primus drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander, Neighbor guitarist Lyle Brewer, The Werks keyboardist Dan Shaw, SunSquabi drummer Chris Anderson, 400 Unit bassist Jimbo Hart, and Cool Cool Cool saxophonist Josh Schwartz and drummer Michelangelo “Mikey” Carubba, among others, a trend that highlights the hardships and stress that touring puts on individuals and their families.
Read the full statements from Jeff Arevalo and Goose below.
Goose is set to return to the stage this week for a three-night run at Miller High Life Theatre in Milwaukee, WI, followed by shows in Toronto and Grand Rapids, MI. The band also just announced new spring and summer tour dates. Find tickets and a full list of tour dates here.
View this post on Instagram