Ryan Richards has announced that he has left Funeral For a Friend to concentrate on his family, Rise to Remain drummer, Pat Lundy has taken his place.
Ryan, who has played drums for the band for the past ten years spoke to NME and had this to say;
“After ten wonderful, enriching, emotional and fascinating years being a part of Funeral For A Friend – I’ve decided to hang up my drum sticks. I’ve always put music first in my life – but the time has come now for my family to take the top spot, after patiently waiting and supporting me for the last 10 years and more. I’m stoked to have my good friend Pat Lundy step into my vacant drumstool. There’s not a better drummer than Pat for the job”
Singer, Matthew Davies-Kreye was keen to dispell any notions of a forthcoming split by saying;
“We give Ryan our full support and wish him the best in his future endeavours. Now, before you all start running around on the internet ringing the death bells for our band we just wanted to say that we’re extremely excited to announce that Pat Lundy will filling the drummer’s seat and will be kicking asses and taking names from here on in.”
A further statement on the band’s Facebook from Ryan said:
“Hey everyone
After ten wonderful, enriching, emotional and fascinating years being a part of Funeral for a Friend – I’ve decided to hang up my drum sticks (or at least put them in a box, which is probably more practical).
As the old romantic cliche’ goes – ‘it’s not you, it’s me’. Being in this band has made each and every one of my dreams come true (bleeeurgh..I know) and I thank all of you for being part of that.
I’ve come to the age of 32, which I’ve always considered the age at which most footballers become rubbish, so it felt like a good age to bow out.
I’ve always put music first in my life – but the time has come now for my family to take the top spot, after patiently waiting and supporting me for the last 10 years and more.
Although this has been a really tough decision, it’s been made infinitely easier through the support and understanding of Matt, Kris, Gav & Rich – who I wish all the success their talents and hard work deserve.
I’m also stoked to have my good friend Pat Lundy step into my vacant drumstool and to take things to the next level.There’s not a better drummer than Pat for the job, and I hope you make him feel as welcome as you made me for the last 10 years.
I’m leaving the band, but I’m glad to say that I’m still living and breathing music full-time as an artist manager, alongside some of the great people who have been instrumental in the career of FFAF from day one.
So yeah..that’s it from me.Thanks for listening – not just today, but for the last 10 years.”