Franz Ferdinand drummer Paul Thomson has announced that he is to leave the band, following 20 years behind the chart-toping act’s kit.
The band have already secured a replacement in Audrey Tait, who has played with many acts over the years, notably as part of Hector Bizerk, as well as being one half of folk/rock duo, The Miss’s (with Glasville’s Michelle Low), working with part of Broken Chanter, and her most recent project The Girl Who Cried Wolf with Bella and the Bear’s Lauren Gilmour.
A statement on the band’s official social media channels announced their drummer’s departure, saying: “It was a bit of a shocker for us when we found out, so it probably will be for some of you too.
“Paul has been our friend for over twenty five years and we’re looking forward to at least another twenty five. He’s a funny, smart, sensitive guy. Not a bad drummer either. You don’t spend 20 years touring the world with someone without them becoming like family and that isn’t going to change anytime soon.
“We’re glad we shared those adventures and experiences together and look forward to hearing what he gets up to next.”
The same announcement revealed the replacement for their long-standing percussionist: “After having played with Paul for so long, it’s obvious that not just anyone could sit behind the kit in FF, so we’re happy to say that one of the other best drummers in the world is joining us.
“Many of you in Glasgow will already know what an incredible musician Audrey Tait is and we’re thrilled to have her join us. It feels totally natural playing with her and she’s a great laugh.
“It has been electrifying being in the studio together and we can’t wait to play live for you all.”
Thomson added: “After nearly 20 years the time has come for this boy to step aside. I never imagined in 2002 that life would have all of this in store. It’s been like a dream and I’m still processing.
“I want to thank each of you that bought a record, came to a concert and shared all these experiences with me. I will never forget it.
“Franz Ferdinand was, is, and always will be family and a huge part of me,” he added before signing off with a line from The Dark of The Matinee, “My words and smile are so easy now.”
As well as Franz, Thomson has also contributed percussion over the years to acts such as Correct and Amor as well as being part of the FFS ‘supergroup’ with Ron and Russell Mael aka Sparks.
It is unclear what lies next for the 45-year-old musician, but he is, barring any more unexpected news, still a member of The Yummy Fur, who were recently announced for a slot at The Great Eastern multi-venue festival, which takes place in Glasgow on November 13th.
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