After nearly a decade as Big Thief‘s bassist, Max Oleartchik is leaving the band. The group announced the news in an Instagram post on Thursday. “After many beautiful years together, Max is no longer in Big Thief,” the group wrote collectively. “Our love for each other is infinite, and we are so grateful for all we have shared these many years together since the beginning of our journey as a band. We wouldn’t be who we are without Max. This separation marks the end of an era, and the beginning of a new one for Big Thief.”
The rationale for Oleartchik’s departure was vague. “This change was made for interpersonal reasons with mutual respect in our hearts,” they said. The post included a carousel of photos of the four of them, ending with a video of all of them singing in a creek and wishing the world happy pride.
The band released its most recent album, Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You, in 2022. The band is scheduled to perform at Project Pabst 2024 in Portland, Oregon at the end of the month. They also have several dates scheduled throughout Europe in August, including an appearance at Gunnersbury Park and Playground supporting PJ Harvey.
The group did not indicate how Oleartchik’s split would affect the upcoming dates, but they did ask for listeners’ patience. “It’s a big change for us and the four of us ask for your trust, respect, and care as we grow into the next chapter of our lives,” they wrote.
From Rolling Stone US
