Umphrey’s McGee, the renowned progressive rock band, faces a temporary change in their lineup as drummer Kris Myers prepares for an essential shoulder surgery requiring him to rehabilitate and recuperate for the remainder of the year. Recognized for his unmatched energy and aggressive drumming style, Myers’ absence poses a challenge for the band. However, thanks to the community they’ve fostered and the music they’ve inspired, Umphrey’s McGee have devised an innovative solution to ensure their shows go on seamlessly – with the help of other drummers.

During Myers’ absence, four top-notch percussionists will fill in for him on various tour dates. The lineup of drumming talent includes Duane Trucks from Widespread Panic, Ben Atkind from Goose, Jeremy Salken from Big Gigantic, and the skilled Jason Bonham. Additionally, to bolster the rhythm section, Umphrey’s McGee’s guitarist Jake Cinninger and percussionist Andy Farag will take turns behind the drum kit during portions of the shows.

To accommodate Myers’ recovery, the band has rescheduled four shows initially planned for October. The new dates for these shows have been set for April 24 – 25, 2024, at UMBowl X, hosted at Boston’s House Of Blues. Furthermore, the two-night performance at Higher Ground in Burlington, Vt., has been shifted to April 26 – 27.

For the upcoming show at Soundcheck Studios in Pembroke, Mass., on Aug. 20, a sold-out celebration of JamBase’s 25th anniversary, Duane Trucks will assume drumming duties. Trucks, known for his impressive lineage as the nephew of Allman Brothers Band drummer Butch Trucks and brother of renowned guitarist Derek Trucks, has previously showcased his drumming prowess as a fill-in for Widespread Panic in 2014, ultimately becoming a permanent member.

Duane Trucks will also perform with Umphrey’s McGee for shows on Aug. 17 – 19 and Nov. 30 – Dec. 2. Atkind will take the drum seat for performances on Aug. 24 – 27 and Sept. 7 – 8, while Jeremy Salken will join the band on Sept. 9. Bonham will be featured at the All IN Music & Arts Festival on Sept. 10 in Indianapolis. Myers’ replacement(s) for concerts spanning Sept. 14 – 22 will be announced at a later date.

In a heartfelt message, Kris Myers expressed gratitude for the love and support he has received throughout this challenging time. He emphasized the importance of his shoulder surgery to prevent further damage and ensure a long and healthy career as a drummer. Myers reassured fans that he would return next year stronger and more energized, promising a historic and epic beating on his drums.

Read his full message below.

This year has been an incredible journey as we commemorate our 25th year celebration as a successful touring act, and it goes without saying that I am extremely proud of our efforts. Personally, I have grown physically, intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and socially throughout the winding road that is music and touring. The result has been learning the values of self-discipline, self-confidence, the development of team spirit, and humility. And most importantly I have developed a special love for the greatest fans any band can hope to have.

On this note, I have recently had to make an extremely difficult decision after an MRI result that revealed significant wear and tear on my left shoulder rotator cuff. Based on the best medical advice, I will be undergoing full rotator cuff repair surgery to prevent any permanent damage and prepare for many more years to come behind the drums. Unfortunately, I will be recovering for the rest of the year resulting in my absence from further shows in 2023. My bandmates and I have the utmost confidence and assurance that this is the best solution considering the long-term commitment we have to our fans, and I am extremely thankful for that.

I am grateful that I am receiving the love and support needed to navigate through these challenging times. I can’t imagine being on the sideline away from my bandmates, the UM team and all of you for the fall tour. I appreciate your kindness and understanding as I recover. I assure you I will be back next year, stronger and healthier than ever. I love and appreciate you all and please take comfort in knowing that everything will be okay and I’ll be playing again soon with my favorite band. And look out, ‘cause when I come back…my drums will take an epic historic beating like nobody has ever seen before!