Since we began playing together two years ago, Jababa has always been a tight-knit group. We are close friends first and foremost, and everything we have created stems from this friendship and our high level of mutual respect and admiration for one another as musicians and individuals.

While it is never easy to part ways with a member, we all understand that at times, this may be the best for everyone involved. Todd has recently decided to move on from Jababa, and tomorrow night’s Baker St. Pub gig will be his last with the band.

Although we are greatly saddened by Todd’s decision, we wish him the best in all of his musical endeavors moving forward. He has been an integral part of everything the band has accomplished since its inception, and there is no doubt in my mind that we wouldn’t be where we are today without the many contributions Todd has brought to the table.

Todd may be leaving the band, but he will always be a big part of the Jababa family. We look forward to future collaborations with him both as part of Jababa (he is always a most welcome guest musician at our gigs) and in other projects we may contribute to down the road.

Will, Brad, and I fully plan to continue the band in 2010. We truly love playing the music, and we have every intention of pushing it farther in the upcoming year. Jababa is a truly collaborative band, and the addition of a new musician to the fold will undoubtedly lead to an evolution in our music. We are all excited for this infusion of new influences, and we know that these changes will help keep us fresh as we move forward.

I would like to thank Todd for everything he has given to the band over the past two years. He will always remain a close friend and a lifetime member of Jababa, no matter what path music takes him.

We’re all looking forward to tomorrow night’s Baker St. gig. It will be a very special night for the band as we say goodbye to a founding member. We hope you all come out to join us in this occasion so that we can give Todd the proper send-off that he deserves.

The Jababa Chronicles”: All musings, anecdotes, philosophies, ramblings, rants, and tirades written exclusively by Andrew Martin unless otherwise specified.