Goose has announced that percussionist/multi-instrumentalist Jeff Arevalo is no longer a member of the band. This announcement comes a month after Arevalo revealed he would step away from touring to prioritize his mental health.
“We have been made aware of behavior in Jeff’s personal life that does not align with the band’s core values,” Goose posted on Sunday. “As a result, Jeff will no longer be a part of the Goose organization.”
The band did not go into detail about what behavior led to the split. Goose—now comprised of Rick Mitarotonda (guitar/vocals), Peter Anspach (keys/vocals), Trevor Weekz (bass), and Cotter Ellis (drums/vocals)—stated that “This is an incredibly unfortunate, unexpected situation, and we did not anticipate having to make another painful change to the band. However, it is clear that this is the only way forward as we remain committed to upholding the values that define our community, particularly when it comes to respecting others and creating a safe environment.”
Arevalo’s departure comes just over a year after the band parted ways with co-founding drummer Ben Atkind. The band did not outline any specific reason for Atkind leaving, only noting that “After a great deal of time and effort working to bridge fundamental personal and creative differences, we’ve come to a place where we feel our current path to be unsustainable long-term.” Former Swimmer drummer Cotter Ellis ultimately replaced Atkind, making his Goose debut during a four-night run at The Capitol Theatre in April 2024.
“This past tour was an unexpected challenge to navigate, but through it all, the four of us forged a deeper connection on and off stage,” the band wrote in conclusion. “We’re feeling inspired to continue growing as a unit as we move into this next chapter, and are deeply grateful for everyone with us on this journey.”
Arevalo joined Goose in 2020 amid the band’s Bingo Tour livestream series. He played alongside Atkind and later Ellis, providing additional percussion, occasionally playing guitar, and even singing lead vocals on the band’s cover of The Clash‘s “Rock the Casbah”. Arevalo also constituted one-third of Goose acoustic offshoot Orebelo with Mitarotonda and Anspach.
See the full statement from Goose regarding Jeff Arevalo. The band is off the road until its debut at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on Thursday, April 24th.
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