DRUMMER LEAVES STEVE HACKETT BAND

Gary O’Toole, drummer and vocalist, has announced he has left Steve Hackett’s band.

In a statement on his Facebook page, O’Toole says:

“It is with immense sadness I must announce my departure from The Steve Hackett band. It has been my privilege and pleasure for nearly 20 years to hold this chair. After a conversation with Steve it became clear we had come to a parting of the ways. It will I feel be for the good and benefit of all concerned.

“On this occasion I will stand and wave the guys off and hope they do well, I know they will. They have been my road family for so long I shall miss them but things need attending at home.

“Some of you are aware of the horrid year I have had personally. I shall devote more time to my school in developing the new environment and also my online school. While also finding a new studio and finally getting to grips with writing my own material.

“Thank you for all your support to the fans who have always treated me with respect.”