The Fritz has announced major changes in the band’s lineup, disclosing to fans that three members, including frontman Jamar Woods, have left the group to pursue other ventures. The Asheville, NC-based quintet made the announcement on Monday afternoon via a Facebook post.
“In 2020 our lives were thrown into chaos and uncertainty as the music industry ground to a screeching halt. Since that time some members of the band have decided to take a step back from music and focus on other aspects of life … Most notably, vocalist and keyboard extraordinaire Jamar Woods will be leaving the group to pursue, among other things, becoming a rock climbing guide” explained The Fritz in the Facebook post.
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Members Mike Evans and Jake O’Connor have also left The Fritz.
It’s not all bad news, however, as the band has welcomed three new members to the group, including the “funk machine Thomson Knoles and longtime Fritz collaborator Matt Schueler on keyboards.” Furthermore, Datrian Johnson, who is best known for his work with John Medeski‘s Saint Disruption and Asheville’s hip-hop group, Free Radio, will take over lead vocal responsibilities.
The band said of his addition, “Datrian is force, and his powerhouse vocals have taken the group to new heights. His immediate chemistry with songwriter/music director/guitarist Jamie Hendrickson, and drummer Michael Tillis is clear and we can’t wait to show y’all what we have been cooking up!”
Read the full post from The Fritz regarding its lineup changes below. While The Fritz does not have any scheduled tour dates, the band’s website does tease a forthcoming tour and album set for 2022. Head here for the latest information.