Jay Weinberg comments on departure from Madball

19 October 2010 | 4:58 pm | Staff Writer
Originally Appeared In

Former Madball drummer Jay Weinberg has commented on his departure from the band, and responded to the statement that the band's front man Freddy Cricien posted, where it was stated that Weinberg was fired from the band. Weinberg posted: "There has been so much noise on the internet regarding my parting ways with Madball - largely distorted - that I wanted to take the opportunity to set the record straight as I see it. Then, anyone who is interested can make up their own mind. Freddy Cricien has most recently inaccurately described my participation in the writing and recording process of Madball's latest project, 'Empire.' However, Freddy has grossly mischaracterized my time with the band in the press; yet I have not responded publicly to any Madball statements. Until now. I agree that Madball will be better served by an individual more attuned to their particular lifestyle and, occasionally, a new band member will grind gears with long-time members over non-musical issues. To ...

Former Madball drummer Jay Weinberg has commented on his departure from the band, and responded to the statement that the band's front man Freddy Cricien posted, where it was stated that Weinberg was fired from the band.


Weinberg posted:


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"There has been so much noise on the internet regarding my parting ways with Madball - largely distorted - that I wanted to take the opportunity to set the record straight as I see it. Then, anyone who is interested can make up their own mind. Freddy Cricien has most recently inaccurately described my participation in the writing and recording process of Madball's latest project, 'Empire.'


However, Freddy has grossly mischaracterized my time with the band in the press; yet I have not responded publicly to any Madball statements. Until now. 


I agree that Madball will be better served by an individual more attuned to their particular lifestyle and, occasionally, a new band member will grind gears with long-time members over non-musical issues. To each his own. But, let me be clear - while I really enjoyed playing the music, I do not subscribe to their choice of habits and lifestyle. This past August while on tour in Europe, disturbing events within the band indicated to me that it was time for me to move on.


While on tour in Canada in September, I informed Freddy, Mitts, and Hoya of my decision to leave - but not before they had found a replacement. The very next morning came Freddy's press release and claim that he had 'released me.' Well, that's just not the case. It is true that everyone is entitled to their own opinions - but not their own facts! Timing is everything, and who would disagree that one cannot be fired after having quit - decisively, amicably and well in advance of Freddy's harsh and public 'spin' of the facts."


Madball's new album "Empire" is out now though Good Fight Music.