The Vaccines (Photo: Live4ever)
London band The Vaccines have been forced to cancel three scheduled European dates due to problems with frontman Justin Young‘s vocal chords.
In a long statement released on their official website, Young was at pains to apologise for, and explain, the situation, which will see shows in Holland, Austria and Northern Ireland affected.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we have to announce the cancellation of our performances in Holland, Austria and Northern Ireland this week due to a continuing issue with my vocal chords. The doctor has ordered immediate vocal rest with the risk of permanent damage to my speaking and singing voice if ignored. Right now we are hoping that these will be the only cancellations, so please bear with us.
“Cancelling shows has unfortunately become a reality in an otherwise successful, exciting and rewarding year and we understand any anger, resentment or upset you feel. Please try to understand that this is as distressing and upsetting, if not more upsetting, for the band and everyone involved. This is not a case of not wanting to visit new places and play for new people. It’s all we have ever wanted and worked for. But we have played to the extent recently that has become detrimental to my vocal chords following the two operations I’ve already had this year in order to try to help save and maintain my health and ability. The last thing I want to be doing is lying in a hospital bed when I could be performing.”
“I know it may seem strange that we would perform on Jimmy Kimmel with this in mind, and cancel other things. No performance takes priority over any other, but we had already travelled to LA especially when the doctor broke the news, and we only have a two song slot, so we will be honouring this commitment. Thank you for understanding. And see you soon. I promise.”
The Vaccines enjoyed a rapid rise last year after receiving significant industry hype on the back of early singles ‘If You Wanna‘ and ‘Wreckin Bar (Ra Ra Ra)‘ just a few short months after their formation.
The momentum continued with the release of debut album ‘What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?‘ in March this year, with the band seeing further commercial recognition for the both the record and its subsequent singles.