In Hearts Wake Drummer Departs, Citing 'Personal Reasons'

Venerated Byron Bay five-piece In Hearts Wake have announced that they have parted ways with long-time drummer Caleb Burton, making official what some eagle-eyed fans have probably feared for a little while.

There have been hints of Burton's departure scattered across the In Hearts Wake social media pages of late, with some observant punters pointing out the presence of fill-in drummer Mike Montgomery, of iwrestledabearonce, on their current US tour — and several others inquiring as to Burton's whereabouts lately — but today's statement marks the first official correspondence from Burton and his bandmates confirming that he is no longer a part of the band.

"It is with a heavy heart that we announce that our long-time drummer, friend and brother, Caleb Burton, will no longer be a part of In Hearts Wake," the band wrote on Facebook this afternoon.

"Caleb's departure is for personal reasons and as a result he will be unable to partake in our very busy international touring schedule. We all remain close and want to thank Caleb for everything he has brought to the band, and wish him all the best for the future."

If you had hopes or dreams of seeing In Hearts Wake any time in the immediate future, despair not — as demonstrated with Montgomery's more-than-capable subbing in for Burton, the band are primed and ready to make good on all scheduled tours and shows.

"All In Hearts Wake tours will be going ahead as planned, and we'll be using a fill-in drummer for all upcoming dates — as some of you may have already noticed," the band wrote.

In an attached statement from Burton himself, the departing drummer didn't shed light on his reasons for leaving In Hearts Wake, but thanked his bandmates and supporters for all they've given him during his tenure behind the IHW kit.

"I never thought when I first joined In Hearts Wake I would be able to fulfil a dream of travelling around this country and the world playing music," Burton wrote in his statement.

"I want to thank everyone who has supported this band in any way on tour over the years. Being a part of In Hearts Wake has been an incredibly fun journey and made me the person I am today."

"I love the guys and wish them all the best in the future," he concluded.

In Hearts Wake are, as mentioned, currently in the United States touring in support of recently released surprise album Skydancer. They'll be back in the country soon enough to do the same here, though, with a string of national tour dates lined up for late May and early June. See theGuide or check The Music App for more information.