Welsh punk outfit Joanna Gruesome have announced the departure of frontwoman Alanna McArdle just weeks after the release of their second album.
In a frank and heartfelt announcement on Facebook the frontwoman cited mental health problems as the reason for her departure, and the band said they were sad to lose “the most amazing vocalist/person/band member/gruesome we could have ever asked for”.
Joanna Gruesome, who released new album Peanut Butter to positive reviews last month and are known for their feminist and anti-homophobic stance, added:
“It’s been so so cool to be in a band with someone… who’s been totally unafraid to hone in on horrible jerks and someone who’s made negotiating the bullshit of music industry types fun and inspiring.”
In October McArdle spoke out about sexism at gigs to Big Issue North and described being made to feel vulnerable and unwelcome at a Joanna Gruesome show in Manchester. In her statement she said she needed time to focus on her mental health recovery but that she is proud of her work both musically and in campaigning against sexism. She added thanks to “anyone who stopped any assholes from hurting other people at our shows”
The band will go ahead with their headline tour in September – which begins at Manchester’s Islington Mill – with a new line up featuring Kate of feminist/queer punks Pennycress on vocals and Roxy of Two White Cranes, Grubs, Trust Fund and Towel on vocals and keyboard.
Antonia Charlesworth
Leave a reply
Your email address will not be published.