Franz Ferdinand Drummer Paul Thomson Leaves Band After 19 Years

Paul Thomson, founding Franz Ferdinand drummer, has left the  band.

The group revealed the news on Twitter, but it appears they’ve already found a replacement. They’ve indicated that Audrey Tait will be taking Thomson’s place. To show no hard feelings between the two, the two drummers posted for a picture where Thomson hands her his drumsticks.

In a statement, the group wrote, “Paul is leaving the band. It was a bit of a shocker for us when we found out, so it probably will be for some of you too. Paul has been our friend for over twenty five years & we’re looking forward to at least another twenty five. He’s a funny, smart, sensitive guy.”

Franz Ferdinand added, “After having played with Paul for so long, it’s obvious that not just anyone could sit behind the kit in FF, so we’re happy to say that one of the other best drummers in the world is joining us. Many of you in Glasgow will already know what an incredible musician Audrey Tait is and we’re thrilled to have her join us. It feels totally natural playing with her and she’s a great laugh.”

Thomson made his own statement saying “After nearly 20 years the time has come for this boy to step aside. I never imagined in 2002 that life would have all of this in store. It’s been like a dream and I’m still processing. I want to thank each of you that bought a record, came to a concert and shared all these experiences with me. I will never forget it. Franz Ferdinand was, is, and always will be family and a huge part of me. My words and smile are so easy now. Love, Paul.”

Check out the full statements below.

Thomson’s work can be heard on all of Franz Ferdinand’s albums including their most recent, 2018’s Always Ascending.

Hello world. Paul is leaving the band. It was a bit of a shocker for us when we found out, so it probably will be for some of you too. Paul has been our friend for over twenty five years & we’re looking forward to at least another twenty five. He’s a funny, smart, sensitive guy. pic.twitter.com/MEoHsgwLF1

— Franz Ferdinand (@Franz_Ferdinand) October 21, 2021

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