The Amity Affliction's Ryan Burt exits tour to battle ‘mental demons’

They've announced a stand-in drummer

Published 7th Dec 2016

The Amity Affliction have announced that drummer Ryan Burt has dropped out of their current tour to battle some “ongoing mental demons.”

In a statement issued on their , the Australian metalcore band said Ryan has exited the European tour with immediate effect while he takes time out.

Insisting that Ryan’s health will always “come first”, The Amity Affliction said that all UK and European shows are going ahead with their good friend Casey McHale standing in on drums.

The full post reads:

“We are sad to announce that Ryan will not be performing on any further shows on the This Could Be Heartbreak UK / European headline tour.

“Ryan has recently been battling some ongoing mental demons, and as a group of friends who have had to deal with mental health issues in one way or another, all four of us knew that the best course of action was for him to take the time to go home and get some professional support. It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but it is the right one. Our priority at this point is Ryan’s health, and that will always come first.

“The shows themselves will all continue as planned, with Casey McHale filling in on drums. He’s an amazing musician and a great friend of both Ryan and the band, and we know we can rely on him to deliver the show you all deserve to see. We ask that everyone respect Ryan’s privacy while he’s getting better.

“If you need someone to talk to regarding mental health, please don’t hesitate to seek help from someone who is properly trained and qualified.”

Everyone at Kerrang! Radio is thinking of Ryan at this difficult time.

If you need information or support on any mental health issues, contact Mind, CALM or Sane.