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James Johnston, the bass player for the Scottish rock band Biffy Clyro, has revealed that he will be absent from the band’s forthcoming UK and European tour due to ongoing mental health challenges and struggles with addiction. The 45-year-old musician shared a heartfelt message on the band’s social media, explaining that he had hidden these difficulties for an extended period but has recently begun seeking professional support. He offered reassurance to fans by stating, “there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
The band, originating from Kilmarnock, is set to start their tour in Belfast on January 9, with performances planned throughout the summer, including dates in Australia and New Zealand. Many of their UK shows have already sold out, notably a concert at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro scheduled for late January. Johnston expressed deep regret over his inability to participate, acknowledging the impact of his mental health and addiction issues, and apologizing to his bandmates Simon Neil, the lead vocalist, and his twin brother Ben Johnston, the drummer. He also thanked them for their unwavering support during this difficult time.
To cover Johnston’s absence, session bassist Naomi MacLeod will join the band temporarily. Fans responded to Johnston’s openness with overwhelming support on social media. One fan wrote, “Thank you for putting yourself first James. The hardest part is accepting that you need help. We’re here when you’re ready to come back,” while another added, “Sending loads of love brother. You’ve done the hardest thing which is facing it. We’re all rooting for you.”
Biffy Clyro recently announced a landmark event, set to headline London’s Finsbury Park in July 2026, marking the biggest show of their career. Since forming in the early 2000s, the trio have established themselves as one of the UK’s most prominent rock acts, boasting eight top-five albums, including four number ones, and selling over a million records. Their international acclaim came with the 2009 album Only Revolutions, which went platinum and earned a Mercury Prize nomination. This album featured hits like “Bubbles” and “Many Of Horror,” the latter famously covered by X Factor winner Matt Cardle as “When We Collide.” Their latest release, Futique, dropped in September after a four-year hiatus and has been praised by critics, with NME calling it one of the band’s “most personal and definitive records to date,” and Mojo highlighting a newfound sense of purpose among the group
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