At Monday’s (27) stop of their Coma Ecliptic tour in Salt Lake City, Between the Buried and Me fans might have noticed drummer Blake Richardson getting up and leaving the stage mid-song. The band came back and finished the set, but there was no official reason given as what happened – until yesterday. In a post on the band’s Facebook page, the drummer apologized for his actions, blaming nerve damage and technical difficulties:

Hey everybody! First off I want to thank everyone for coming out to our show in Salt Lake City last night. It was, by far, one of the biggest gigs we have ever played there and we can’t thank you enough for your support! With that, I would like to apologize to my band, crew, Animals as Leaders, The Contortionist, and especially to everyone who came out to watch us play. I’ve been battling with a nerve issue in my left leg this entire tour. The pain in my leg, coupled with a night full of technical difficulties caused me to lash out in frustration towards the end of the set. It was inappropriate, unprofessional, and extremely regrettable. In my eleven years of touring, up until last night, I have never acted in that manner… ever. I hope that those who were in attendance can forgive my actions. The support and kindness y’all showed when we came back on to finish our set is something I will never forget. I promise that we will come back and give you all a proper BTBAM experience!

As for the rest of the tour, we WILL be performing at all the remaining dates. My playing may not be 100%, but we figure that a BTBAM show is better than no BTBAM show! I sincerely appreciate the support from our fans, band mates, crew, and tour mates. You all have made this such an amazing tour for me!

I’d also like to send a big thank you to everyone who has come out to see this tour. We would not have means to support ourselves and our families without YOU. We are forever grateful for your support.

-Blake

Seems like it must have been frustrating for everyone involved, but at least the rest of the band stayed onstage. If you want to press your luck and hope that Richardson stays on stage, here are the remaining tour dates for their run with Animals as Leaders and The Contortionist.