The Dropkick Murphys singer Al Barr won’t be joining the band for their upcoming tour due to his mother Ingrid‘s health.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Celtic punks shared that Ingrid has recently suffered a series of strokes, and has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia.
“Dropkick Murphys have always been about FAMILY,” the statement reads. “And in the spirit of FAMILY FIRST, Al has had to make the very difficult decision to stay home for the rest of the year to care for his Mom.”
The affected dates include the Murphys’ upcoming U.S. tour, which kicks off February 21 in Reading, Pennsylvania, and concludes with a multi-night hometown run in Boston to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Barr will also miss the group’s summer European tour, which launches in June.
“We appreciate your compassion for Al’s family,” the band says. “We know as part of our family you will understand and support us in dealing with these difficult times.”
For the shows, Dropkick co-singer Ken Casey will be handling lead vocal duties, with assists from special guests.
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