Perth progressive metal band and current Rockpit artist Nucleust have announced the departure of their drummer Shay Smith who has decided to leave the band on good terms for personal reasons. It comes after a whirlwind 2017 where the band released their debut full length album “Terra Cerebral” which has received critical praise in the media and which followed a support slot with Twelve Foot Ninja on the W.A. leg of their tour and a spot at the Blacken Open Air festival in Alice Springs. This was followed by an extensive Australian tour supporting the release of their album which ended with a successful show supporting UK prog masters Haken and most recently heading on their first European tour supporting US death metal titans Six Feet Under.
The band have released the following statement: “There comes a time in every bands career where a member decides to take a different path for many different reasons and unfortunately for us now is one of those times. We would like to wish Shay our drummer all the best in his future endeavours and thank him for all his hard work and contribution since the conception of the band, we all remain good friends and Shay will continue to be an active part of the band until such time as we find a replacement.”
Shay Smith also gives a statement detailing the reasons for his departure.
My journey in music started close to 20 years ago. I can remember the psychologist at my school telling my mother there wasn’t much hope for her son. “The best you can probably hope for is for him to be able to put one brick on top of the other”. That was the predicted height of my achievement. School was a strong reinforcement of this opinion, but thankfully my mother never accepted this encouraging me to play music.
I remember the constant disappoint of those around me at my ineptitude at school juxtaposed with their amazement as I started playing classical music by ear; singing in harmony effortlessly; and teaching myself to play multiple instruments. I honestly used to think that playing music was the only thing I could do that might be of real value.
After playing in bands for most of my life things have changed. I have learned new skills; made new friends; and changed immensely as a person. Somehow along the way I have completely lost the desire to play for other people. The feelings of joy and motivation I used to feel with an instrument in my hands have been replaced by frustration and anxiety when I have to try to tackle the ever present problem of succeeding as a band. Making the time and financial contributions becomes extremely difficult when you just don’t have the dream any more. A band like Nucleust deserves a drummer who loves and cares deeply about what they are doing and I just don’t feel that way any more, and so I feel it wouldn’t be right to continue with the band. I cannot express how much love there is in my heart for Max, Shan, and Josh. The bond we have had as a band has been one of the most powerful meaningful things in my life.
I will not be leaving the band stranded. I will continue to be involved in the band until a suitable replacement is found and possibly even after. I will not be pursuing another band after this. This is not due to personal conflicts or creative differences. We have talked this over together and the parting is extremely sad but amicable. I want to thank anyone who bought a CD or a t-shirt, came to a gig, helped us record our music, guided us in the music business, and most of all those who helped me haul my bloody drum kit around the place and set it up! I am looking at you, Shan. I am extremely grateful and honoured to have the privilege of your company on this journey.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Shay
Nucleust are currently seeking a new drummer to fill the position and have posted details on requirements needed to join the band. Auditions will be held at the Hen House Studios at a time to be announced. For further details on how to join please go to nucleust.com
