Animals as Leaders forced to cancel concerts as drummer suffers 'serious injury'

A popular American metal bandhave been forced to cancel multiple tour dates after their drummer suffered a serious injury leaving him unable to play.

Animals as Leaders was set to perform in Australia, Mexico and South America, but have pulled out just a few weeks before their first show, which was set to be held in Santiago de Querétaro, Mexico.

The band shared the news in a post on social media which read: “To our fans in Mexico, South America and Australia. We have some unfortunate news. We're going to have to cancel our upcoming tour dates.”

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The post continued: “Matt [Garstka] sustained a serious arm injury that requires surgery, and there’s no way we can perform without him. Rather than leave things up in the air, we’re calling it now and putting our full focus into writing the next Animals As Leaders album.” It comes after reports Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are set for new 'goldmine' offer - but could face issue.

Animals as Leaders confirmed that new material was already in the works, but added that they understand that the news “sucks”. “Cancelling isn’t something we take lightly."

Matt explained in his own post that he was suffering from a “pretty serious injury”. “I’m on the other side of surgery but it’s still going to be two to three months before I’m back at it and that’s being optimistic,” he told fans.

“Of course I’m going to do all the right things, but in the meantime I’m really apologetic, really sorry, that we have to cancel these tours for Australia and South America and Mexico.

"I was really looking forward to playing and coming strong, but I’ve got to heal up, you know, do all the right things to heal up properly and do things for longevity.”

He promised to make it up to the fans and thanked everyone for being understanding.

Fellow musicians offered support in the comment section. Eloy Casagrande, the drummer in Slipknot, wrote: “You’re the goat, brother! You’ll be back stronger than ever.” Alex Rudinger, who has played in bands Conquering Dystopia and the Faceless, said: “Dang dude, so sorry to hear this. Wishing you a quick recovery, man. & I hope you're holding up alright.”

Matthew Greiner from August Burns Red commented: “Sorry Matt! Hoping you have a quick and whole recovery”, and Matt Halpern from Periphery left a red heart under the post.

Fans were also quick to offer up their thoughts, with one writing: “This is how good AAL is. Someone gets hurt, nobody is capable of filling in. Get well soon Matt!” Another said: “Idk how Matt could be any better of a drummer but a bionic shoulder is probably a good start.”

A third commented: “Whenever I see these posts I always worry it's the band announcing a split up.... Thank goodness it isn't that but not good news still. Hope Matt heals quick!”

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