Arcade Fire is down to one Butler as Will says he quits

Will Butler, a member of Arcade Fire since 2003 and brother of frontman Win, says that he’s out of the band: “There was no acute reason beyond that I’ve changed—and the band has changed—over the last almost 20 years. Time for new things.” In fact, he was gone some time ago and was apparently waiting for the announcement of the new album, WE.

Here’s his full statement:

Hi friends— I’ve left Arcade Fire.

I left at the end of last year, after the new record was complete. There was no acute reason beyond that I’ve changed—and the band has changed—over the last almost 20 years. Time for new things.

I’m working on a new record; booking some shows this summer. I’m working on music for a David Adjmi play (which is so good). A few other projects percolating.

I was at Paul Farmer’s memorial service last weekend. The words from the ceremony, and the challenge of his life, remain at the front of my mind.

I’ll still be working with @plus1org and @pih —and the many activists and good humans and elected officials I’ve met—to give people material help; to build better systems of health, justice, and government; to try to live up in some way to Paul’s example.

Thank you to anyone who’s come out to AF shows, or bought a record, or loves our music. It’s meaningful to be part of your lives. Thank you to the crew, staff, management, label people, bands, artists, and friends who have helped bring our vision to life for so many years

The band are still my friends and family.

I’ll be around! See you around! — Will