Guitarist Scott Middleton leaves Cancer Bats after 17 years

Cancer Bats guitarist and co-founder Scott Middleton has left the band after 17 years.

The musician – who formed the Toronto punks with frontman Liam Cormier all the way back in 2004 – says that "recent life events" have played into his decision to part ways with his band (completed by drummer Mike Peters and bassist Jaye R. Schwarzer), with Scott now wanting to "prioritise my family, personal growth/health, and focus my music career toward helping other bands and artists through my experience and passion for producing, mastering and mixing". All the best, sir!

Read Scott's full statement below:

"After much consideration and an amazing 17 years together, I’ve decided that I will be parting ways with Cancer Bats.

"I look back on all the records we made, the countless tours & shows, the accomplishments we achieved together, and memories we’ve shared, with immense pride and gratitude.

"I have nothing but love and support for Mike, Jaye and Liam and wish them all the best in the future.

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"I also wish to extend a massive thanks to all the crew & bands we hit the road with, the amazing PR teams, labels, agents, managers, producers, venues, artists, photographers, and journalists we ever worked with; and of course, all the incredible friends and supporters of CB worldwide, without whom, our career and success would not have been possible.

"After recent life events, now more than ever it feels the time is right for me to prioritise my family, personal growth/health, and focus my music career toward helping other bands and artists through my experience and passion for producing, mastering and mixing. I am currently in the process of building my own recording studio east of Toronto, on the Bay of Quinte, in the Belleville / Pec Region, which will be ready in the next month or so.

"Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

"Sincerely, Scott Middleton"

Watch Scott performing live with Cancer Bats in The K! Pit back in 2019:

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