Japanese punk band THE SKIPPERS will continue as a four-member group after bassist Oisu announced his departure, according to a statement from band member Akihiro.
Akihiro said discussions about the band’s future began at the start of the year after Oisu expressed his desire to leave. During those discussions, the members concluded that continuing as THE SKIPPERS would be difficult without UK and that they themselves wanted to continue as the current four-member lineup.
Akihiro said he also discussed various options with Jager before the band ultimately decided to announce the departure. He apologized for the timing of the announcement, saying the group had reached its decision only at the last minute.
The band plans to complete its current tour and perform at PUNK THIS TOWN. However, PUNK THIS TOWN will not serve as Oisu’s final show. Instead, the four remaining members will hold a one-man live performance as their final stage together.
Akihiro acknowledged that he cannot fully accept the decision emotionally, but said he respects the different paths each member has chosen. He also reflected on the difficulty of sustaining a band and said the experience had reinforced his appreciation for the joy of being in a group.
While he said the band’s future remains uncertain, Akihiro added that he wants to carefully consider his own life and work toward making it successful. He invited fans to attend what he described as the final stage of the current four-member THE SKIPPERS.
Source: THE SKIPPERS Baアキヒロ
