The beloved jam band Goose has made a poignant announcement regarding the exit of their drummer, Jeff Arevalo, amidst allegations pertaining to his personal "conduct." Now, Arevalo has struck back with his side of the story.
On Sunday, the band disclosed through a statement posted across social media platforms that Jeff Arevalo was no longer an integral part of their musical ensemble, citing a mysterious "unfortunate and unforeseen circumstance" shrouded in secrecy. "We have come to know of certain behaviors in Jeff's personal sphere that clash with the fundamental values that our band cherishes," the statement elaborated. "It has become unequivocally clear that this is the path we must tread to stay true to the principles that shape our communal identity." No further elaboration was forthcoming.
Since its inception in Connecticut in 2014, Goose has tirelessly toured, capitalizing on the enduring allure of psychedelic rock, a genre popularized by legends like the Grateful Dead, Phish, the String Cheese Incident, and their contemporaries.
Arevalo, who embarked on his journey with Goose in 2020, released his own statement on Monday. In it, he acknowledged a "personal turmoil" that he had brought to the band's notice in January but remained tight-lipped about its specifics. He revealed that he embarked on a mental health sabbatical and underwent an intensive "program" in Washington state.
"I delved into the intricacies of emotional challenges, engaged in heartfelt conversations with numerous counselors, and participated in group therapy with an open heart and an unbiased mind," Arevalo penned. "I indulged in daily journaling, penned poetry, and shared musical moments with my roommate."
Upon completing the program, Arevalo revealed that he received an email from Goose's legal representative, informing him of his termination. "I do not feel that I was accorded the respect, value, or utilization befitting my contributions during my tenure with the band," he lamented, adding that he had declined to sign a non-disclosure agreement.
"I extend my best wishes to Goose on their musical voyage. I am now embarking on new endeavors where I can play a more hands-on role in songwriting, creative direction, and operate in an environment that fosters genuine equity," he concluded.
