Melbourne prog metal rockers Twelve Foot Ninja have announced that vocalist Nik ‘Kin Etik’ Barker “has made the difficult decision” to leave the band.
It’s been revealed that Barker will remain with the group for all upcoming Aussie shows, as well as a yet-to-be-announced farewell tour, before Twelve Foot Ninja enlist a new vocalist.
“After 14 years, hundreds of beers, a few albums, and a couple of tours, with my favourite knuckleheads, I have made the difficult decision to end my tenure as vocalist of Twelve Foot Ninja,” Barker said.
“Being a member of TFN has allowed me to travel the world, meet, and connect with a multitude of awesome people, and experience things that most would only dream of.
“To those who have supported me over the years, and have believed in me when I couldn’t, you have my eternal gratitude.
“As to the ‘Why?’ The creative tension between Steve [‘Stevic’ Mackay] and I has contributed to some great music that I’m truly proud of. But also, it has taken its cumulative toll and I feel creatively fatigued in this particular dynamic.
“It has reached a point of taking more than I feel I can give to it, and this would eventually be to the detriment of the music.
“I’m proud that we were able to make our differences work for so long, and to still come out the other end as good mates. I have so much love, and admiration for Steve, and his work ethic. He has pushed me to grow in a lot of ways, and I thank him for his patience, and persistence.
“However, as hard as it is to leave, I feel ready to step away from this role.
“I will continue with TFN into 2022, and together we’ll find a killer singer to take my place, and join the band on this next phase of its evolution.
I’m looking forward to smashing out the remainder of my shows with the lads, and close out this chapter, in celebration.
“It’s the touring side of being in a band that I love the most, and it has been awesome to tour with TFN, and all of the bands we have had the pleasure of sharing a stage with.
“This will be an emotional time, as I’m going to miss these magnificent bastards.
“I know this will be disappointing, and may draw the ire of some, but you must know, that this decision was amicable, and not taken lightly. I ask for your understanding.”
Read the full statement on the band’s Facebook page here and head to their official website here for vocal auditions.
