Franz Ferdinand drummer Paul Thomson is leaving the band.
The “Take Me Out” rockers announced the news in an Instagram post Thursday, writing that Thomson’s decision “was a bit of a shocker for us.”
“Paul has been our friend for over 25 years and we’re looking forward to at least another 25,” the post reads. “He’s a funny, smart, sensitive guy. Not a bad drummer either.”
“You don’t spend 20 years touring the world with someone without them becoming like family and that isn’t going to change anytime soon,” Franz continues. “We’re glad we shared those adventures and experiences together and look forward to hearing what he gets up to next.”
Thomson didn’t give a reason for his departure, only writing that “the time has come for this boy to step aside.”
“Franz Ferdinand was, is, and always will be family and a huge part of me,” he says.
The post is also accompanied by a photo of Thomson handing a pair of drumstick to his replacement: Glasgow drummer Audrey Tait.
“It feels totally natural playing with her and she’s a great laugh,” Franz says. “It has been electrifying being in the studio together and we can’t wait to play live for you all.”
Thomson is now the second original Franz Ferdinand member to leave the band, following guitarist Nick McCarthy’s departure in 2016. Frontman Alex Kapranos and bassist Bob Hardy are now the only remaining founding members in the group.
Copyright © 2021, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.