On Instagram earlier today, Superchunk drummer Jon Wurster announced that he was leaving the band, writing, “After much soul-searching, I have decided to fade back from my role as Director of Percussive Research at Superchunk Industries. It’s been a very productive thirty-one years but my heart just isn’t in it anymore.”
Wurster has been behind the drums for Superchunk since 1991, two years after it formed in Chapel Hill.
Aside from a band hiatus in the early 2000s, the workhorse foursome has released a reliable stream of records since 1989, 10 of which Wurster has played on and lent his energetic percussive style. Outside of his work with Superchunk, he has also played with local musicians Caitlin Cary, Chris Stamey, and The Mountain Goats, among others.
Drummer Laura King (Speed Stick, Bat Fangs, Flesh Wounds) will fill in for Wurster at the band’s next show on February 17 in Raleigh, though Superchunk hasn’t announced a permanent new member to join vocalist Mac McCaughan, bassist Laura Ballance, and guitarist Jim Wilbur.
Wurster posted the announcement next to a photo of his signature lavender shirt (“The Shirt”), continuing, “I wish nothing but the best for Mac, Jim and Jason as they continue producing the high quality, live rock music you have come to know and love. It has been an honor serving you and I’ll rock your faces somewhere down the line.”
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