Breaking: The Jesus Lizard have cancelled their upcoming tour, including dates in New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and the U.S., due to a serious health issue affecting a band member. The announcement, made via the band’s official Instagram account on Monday, August 4th, impacts performances scheduled throughout October and November.
The band stated the cancellation is a precautionary measure recommended by medical professionals following the health incident. While details regarding the band member’s condition haven’t been released, they assured fans the prognosis is “excellent.” All ticket holders will receive full refunds, as the band is currently unable to determine potential reschedule dates.
This tour marked a significant return for The Jesus Lizard, representing their first performances in Australia and New Zealand as 1998, and in Japan since 1996. The band had previously completed tours of the U.S., U.K., and Europe in 2024.
Formed in Chicago in 1987, The Jesus Lizard – comprised of David Yow (vocals), Duane Denison (guitar), Ryan Nakamura (bass), and Mac McNeilly (drums) – initially released a series of singles and EPs on the influential indie label Touch and Go Records. They went on to release four studio albums for the label, including critically acclaimed works like Goat (1991) and Liar (1992).
In 1995, the band signed with Capitol Records, releasing two further albums before disbanding in 1999. A two-year reunion occurred in 2008, and the band resumed activity in 2017. This year saw the release of Rack,their first new full-length album in 26 years,released on August 30,2024,via Cleopatra Records.
Despite limited mainstream chart success – their album Shot reached No.28 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart in 1996 – The Jesus Lizard has maintained a strong legacy within the American underground music scene. The band’s distinctive,abrasive sound and intense live performances have influenced numerous artists,including Nirvana,who cited them as a key influence. kurt Cobain was a known fan and frequently wore Jesus Lizard t-shirts in public.
The band’s recent increased touring activity, following their reformation, had signaled a renewed commitment to live performance. The cancelled tour represents a setback for both the band and their dedicated fanbase.
