Image via Umphrey’s McGee’s Facebook

After 22 years, Kris Myers has parted ways with Umphrey’s McGee. In a post to the band’s social channels, both the longtime drummer and the undefinable fusion ensemble he helped shape shared statements reflecting on the split, their years together and the journey ahead. Myers’ departure is effective immediately, and the group has not yet named a successor for their rhythm section.

“After long talks and deep consideration, I have made the difficult decision to resign as the drummer of Umphrey’s McGee,” Myers detailed. “This decision wasn’t easy, but the biggest ones seldom are.

“I will deeply miss all the amazing and professional aspects of Umphrey’s organization, especially the time with my brothers Jake, Joel, Andy, Brendan, and Ryan, growing from vans to tour buses, clubs to theaters, to where we are now. We collectively felt it was time for me to pursue other elements of my musical creativity that have been calling to me.”

Beyond his longtime collaborators, Myers expressed gratitude for Umphrey’s McGee’s tight-knit and active following, who welcomed him into the fold when he assumed the seat of founding drummer Mike Mirro after his departure in late 2002. “The amazing and loyal UM community has been an integral part of my growth as a person, a professional, a philanthropist, and a performer, and I will forever be grateful,” he wrote. “It has been an inspiration and a joy to have shared so many amazing experiences with such a loyal and exuberant fanbase, altogether enough to last for a lifetime.”

In closing, the celebrated percussionist looked forward to the “great things to come” in his continuing musical career: “Despite my departure from an incredible journey with my longtime band of brothers, please know that I will still be out there performing, and I sincerely hope to see you on my new path down the road.”

“After an incredible 22-year ride together, we support Kris in his decision to step away and begin a new chapter,” Myers’ five former bandmates expressed in a co-authored address. “We are immensely grateful for the music, heart, and energy he brought to this band over the years, both on stage and off. It’s been an unforgettable ride filled with adventure, growth, and brotherhood, and we’ll always cherish the journey we’ve shared.

“We’re proud of everything we’ve built together and grateful for the bond that will always remain. As he sets out to explore new creative pursuits, we wish Kris nothing but success and fulfillment.

“Transitions create space for new beginnings. While it’s impossible not to feel the weight of this moment, we’re going to harness the opportunity that comes with change and continue the journey — full speed ahead.”

Umphrey’s McGee will return to the stage next week with a two-night engagement at Isle of Palms, S.C.’s The Windjammer, setting off the next leg of their Cruising Altitude Tour. From that outset, they’ll sprint into 33 further performances through Sept. 20. Find more information on their upcoming run at umphreys.com/tour.

Read the full statements from Myers and Umphrey’s McGee below. Check out the band’s recent Morrockshow concert getaway here. To grab tickets to see Umphrey’s McGee live, click here.