The Black Keys Cancel Australian Tour

American rock duo The Black Keys have cancelled their upcoming Australian tour, including Bluesfest, as a result of drummer Patrick Carney's recent shoulder injury.

The band, one of the Byron Bay event's headliners, released a statement on the news today, admitting Carney's recovery from the injury, which occurred while he was on holiday in the Caribbean, has taken longer than anticipated. The outfit were also due to perform in New Zealand and Japan over the coming month, with those shows also cancelled.

"We are very sorry to have to cancel our upcoming performances through April 23," the statement began. 

"Patrick sustained a dislocated and broken shoulder in January that required surgery. Working with the doctors, surgeons and physiotherapists since January, we had expected Patrick to be ready to return to touring in April. The recovery process and physical therapy has taken longer than anticipated and unfortunately Patrick is still unable to perform and needs additional time to heal. We thank all of our fans for their ongoing support and we look forward to getting back on the road as soon as possible."

Bluesfest Director Peter Noble confirmed the Alabama Shakes would replace The Black Keys as the closing act on their Mojo Stage on Good Friday and are searching for one more act to add to the day's bill. 

"I do need to say that this close to Bluesfest, it is going to be extremely difficult to get an international artist to play, given the requirements to get visas in time, however, we are keeping all options open."

Noble also said The Black Keys' support act Band Of Skulls are still set to perform here next month despite the news. 

The Black Keys had headline shows scheduled for Brisbane, the Yarra Valley, Melbourne, Sydney, Hunter Valley, Perth and Adelaide. 

Promoter of the tour, Brian Taranto of Love Police Touring said: "We have taken great pride in promoting The Black Keys for over 10 years now from small clubs to big arenas and festivals. We were incredibly excited about the shows that were about to happen but there is no way around cancelling the tour with the extent of Pat’s injury.

"You just can’t have The Black Keys with no drums. We sincerely apologise for the hassle this cancellation will cause fans."

Fans looking to refund their one-day passes to the Friday of the event are encouraged to contact Bluesfest directly, while those with headline show tickets should contact their point of purchase for more info.