The article from Stereogum discusses the recent turmoil within Jane’s Addiction, particularly focusing on the altercation between singer Perry Farrell and guitarist Dave Navarro. Here is a summary of the key points:
1. **Onstage Incident**: Perry Farrell threw a punch at Dave Navarro during a show at Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston, ending the concert abruptly. This incident occurred after Farrell had been visibly frustrated and out of sync with Navarro throughout the performance.
2. **Backstage Altercation**: According to Dan Cleary, the band’s guitar and bass tech, Farrell punched Navarro again backstage after the show. This second punch was confirmed by Cleary, who described it as a direct hit to Navarro’s face.
3. **Tour Cancellation**: The altercation led to the cancellation of Jane’s Addiction’s tour and an indefinite hiatus for the band. Cleary believes that the band is likely finished due to the severity of the incident and the underlying tensions within the group.
4. **Pre-Tour Tensions**: Cleary detailed that Farrell had been distant from his bandmates since the start of the tour, which began in Las Vegas. He also mentioned that Farrell had initially quit the band before being persuaded to continue by management. The band had agreed to a more stripped-down show without backup dancers or singers, which Farrell opposed.
5. **Mental Health Issues**: Cleary suggested that Farrell’s behavior was not driven by alcohol but by emotional and possibly substance-related issues. He described Farrell as “crazed” during the incident, indicating a deeper mental health struggle.
6. **Support for Farrell**: Despite the severity of the incident, Cleary expressed sympathy for Farrell, hoping he would seek help and recover from his mental health issues. Farrell has since apologized for his actions and is reportedly seeking medical treatment, including visits to an otolaryngologist and a neurologist for vocal issues.
7. **Band Dynamics**: The article highlights the strained dynamics within the band, particularly between Farrell and his wife Etty Lau, who had been part of the band’s production team. The inclusion of dancers and backup singers was a significant point of contention, with Farrell wanting a more elaborate show that his bandmates opposed.
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