Death Cab For Cutie announce new album, departure of Chris Walla

Death Cab For Cutie have announced two bits of major news, one more positive than the other.

In confirming that they’ve completed work on their 8th studio album, they also announced guitarist Chris Walla is to leave the band.

Walla will remain with the band during festival season, with the final show as the current line-up being played at Rifflandia Festival in Victoria, BC (September 13th-14th).

“I will miss being a quarter of this band, and will support whatever course Death Cab for Cutie chooses from here. I am profoundly grateful to Ben, Nick, and Jason, for the experiences that define my adult life. Truly grateful, beyond words. Thank you,” said Walla in a statement.

“I am also grateful to, and deeply humbled by, all of our fans. Without you, music would be mere ‘content’ and nothing could possibly be sadder than that. Thank you all, so dearly.”

Explaining his reasons for leaving the band, Chris said “I think I long for the unknown. It might be that simple.”

“We are excited about sharing new music, and seeing you all very soon,” the band said to fans.