Steven Page leaving BNL

[CinnamonGirl]

The statement from their website:

By mutual agreement, Steven Page will be parting company with the remaining members of Barenaked Ladies.
Jim Creeggan, Kevin Hearn, Ed Robertson, and Tyler Stewart will continue recording and touring together as Barenaked Ladies. Steven Page will pursue solo projects including theatrical opportunities while the band enters the studio in April 2009, and hits the road in the fall.

Page says "These guys are my brothers. We've grown up together over the past twenty years. I love them and wish them all the best in the future."

The band also wish Steven well in all of his endeavors. Ed Robertson says: "It's the start of a new chapter for all of us. Here's to the future!"

Everyone is looking forward to making new music and thanks their fans for their support.

This makes me sad. I'd planned on going to their concert later this year (they usually hit Ohio in December), but I can't imagine it being as fun without the banter/silliness of Steve & Ed.

[God of Thunder]

I'm as stunned as anyone. I know he had some issues recently, but I can't see where the band would let him leave.

I have seen the band the last 7 times they were in Michigan, with the exception of the New Years Eve show this past year. I was even at the show that got taped for the "Talk to the Hand: Live in Michigan" DVD.

I cannot at all imagine what a show will be like without him. Barenaked Ladies WAS Steve & Ed. Everything revolved around their center.

For anyone who wants to know what a BNL live show was about, get the Live in Michigan DVD. It was an awesome show filmed at a great venue. Look for me, I'm waaaaay in the back.

This is a sad day for BNL, I hope he later decides to come back.

[Daniel_]

Glad I saw them on the BLAM tour.

And the Maroon tour.

I'm sure they'll still be good - just different.