In a statement issued earlier today, Blink 182 drummer Travis Barker has announced that he’s pulling out of the band’s upcoming tour of Australia. Here’s Travis:
“I still haven’t gotten over the horrific events that took place the last time I flew when my plane crashed and four people were killed, two being my best friends…I gave the band my blessing to take another drummer if they still wanted to do the tour without me. I hope to come to Australia again someday perhaps by ship if need be. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a boat that worked with the schedule this time around. Once again I’m sorry to all the fans.”
The band are committed to forging ahead with the tour, which is slated to run February 20th to March 4th. The good news for Blink fans? Bad Religion‘s Brooks Wackerman will be filling in for Barker. Here’s the band’s statement:
The trip to Australia was planned during our European tour last summer. The band knew the chances of Travis overcoming his fear of flying, which was magnified after the horrible plane crash in 2008, would be a challenge, but we wanted to play for our fans in Australia nonetheless. The three of us tried all measures to get us all there in full form. Travis has been working to overcome his fear of flying. Since we now know we have to make the trip without Travis our friend Brooks Wackerman (Bad Religion, Tenacious D) has stepped in. We love our fans in Australia so canceling was not an option so we still plan to come and play some kick ass shows. Mark, Tom, and Travis
Click here for the full slate of Blink 182 Australia tour dates.
Feb 20 Allphone Arena Sydney, Australia
Feb 22 RNA Showgrounds Brisbane, Australia
Feb 23 Soundwave – SOLD OUT Brisbane, Australia
Feb 24 Soundwave – SOLD OUT Sydney, Australia
Feb 26 Myer Music Bowl – SOLD OUT Melbourne Vic, Australia
Feb 27 Meyer Music Bowl Melbourne, Australia
Mar 01 Soundwave – SOLD OUT Melbourne, Australia
Mar 02 Soundwave – SOLD OUT Adelaide, Australia
Mar 04 Soundwave – SOLD OUT Perth, Australia