"Thank you for everything": Drummer Mark O’Connell leaves Taking Back Sunday

Taking Back Sunday drummer Mark O'Connell has announced he is departing the band.

In a statement posted on Instagram yesterday (January 7), the longtime sticksman thanked the fans for their love and support, noting that the decision wasn't an easy one and “it wasn't entirely my own.”

“After nearly 25 years as the drummer of Taking Back Sunday, I want to confirm that I am no longer with the band,” reads the message to his followers and fans. “It’s taken me some time to address this. Thank you for your patience as I’ve reflected on how to share my story.

“First, I want to thank the fans – your love and support have meant everything to me. You’ve been the heartbeat of TBS, and a huge part of my life for nearly a quarter of a century. I owe it all to you.

“My departure wasn’t an easy decision, and it wasn’t entirely my own. Over the past few years, I’ve focused on my family and personal growth, including committing to my sobriety. Unfortunately, during this time, I didn’t always feel the support from those I thought of as brothers, and creative differences made it hard to move forward together.”

As well as expressing his gratitude to those who have supported him, Mark also took time to look ahead to his future in music.

I’m excited to share that I’ll be releasing new music soon – both as a solo artist and with some old friends. I’ve poured my heart into this project, and I can’t wait to share it with you. This is a new chapter for me – one of passion, creativity, and hope. I hope you’ll join me on this journey as we continue to be a part of each other’s stories.

“That said, I’m grateful for the incredible memories with each of my bandmates – and all of you, as well as all the opportunities along the way. I’m choosing to focus on the good as I move into this next chapter.”

Taking Back Sunday are yet to comment publicly on Mark's departure, or if a new drummer will be joining the line-up full-time. The band will headline 2000trees festival on July 9 – 12.

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• 7 things you probably didn’t know about Taking Back Sunday’s Adam Lazzara
• Taking Back Sunday: “With each record we’ve been able to see that we’re not alone”