The Angels' frontman has cancelled all tour commitments while he undergoes treatment.
Legendary Aussie rocker Doc Neeson, original frontman of pub rock band The Angels, was admitted to hospital over the Christmas/New Years period with a brain tumour, it was announced today. Neeson is reportedly undergoing intensive radiation and chemotherapy and will continue to do so for the next six to seven months.
Neeson's version of The Angels, which features original drummer Buzz Bidstrup issued a statement this morning announcing the news and confirming that all dates on their forthcoming 100% Tour are to be cancelled.
"It is with deep regret and shock that The Angels have to announce that Mr Doc Neeson was admitted to hospital over the recent Christmas/New Year period," the statement reads. "He has just been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, (brain tumour). This will require immediate intensive radiation and chemotherapy treatment and will continue for the next 6-7 months. Unfortunately, due to this, The Angels therefore have no choice but to cancel all their upcoming dates.
"The Angels would like to thank all the fans for their continued support and we wish Doc all the best for his treatment during this difficult time. The Angels look forward to seeing everyone again once Doc is given the all clear to return to the stage."
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Neeson famously returned to performing a couple of years after suffering a severe spinal injury back in 1999, performing in a number of different bands including Doc Neeson's Angels and Red Phoenix, while undergoing legal battles with his former bandmates who began to tour under the name of The Angels. The band mended their rifts in 2008 to reform and embark on a number of national tours, but once again split a couple of years later.
The following dates have been cancelled:
Friday 15 February - Penrith Panthers
Saturday 16 February The Entrance Leagues
Friday 22 February - Vine Inn, Barossa
Saturday 23 February 2013 - Bridgeway Hotel, Adelaide
Saturday 2 March - The Tivoli, Brisbane
Friday 8 March - Port Macquarie Panthers
Saturday 9 March - Club Forster
Friday 15 March Prince Of Wales Hotel, Melbourne
Friday 22 March - Canberra South Cross Club
Saturday 23 March - Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre