Crowbar have been forced to cancel their planned European tour after frontman and guitarist Kirk Windstein revealed that ongoing back issues have once again flared up.
The setback comes at a time when interest in the legendary sludge metal outfit has been enjoying a resurgence, but Windstein’s health has made the upcoming run impossible to complete. Fans may recall that the musician was forced to perform while seated during portions of last year’s Crowbar and Eyehategod U.S. tour as he dealt with a serious back injury.
In a video statement shared on July 20, Windstein explained that a bilateral synovial cyst on his spine has begun causing significant problems again, prompting him to begin physical therapy.
“Hey, everybody. Kirk Windstein from Crowbar here, and I have an announcement to make. As everybody knows — or most fans know — I had to perform sitting down last year during the Crowbar/Eyehategod U.S. tour.”
“I have a bilateral synovial cyst on my spine that is beginning to flare up again and it’s giving me a lot of problems. To cut straight to the point, it’s acting up and has been for a couple of weeks now, so I begin physical therapy tomorrow morning.”
Given the physical demands of international travel, Windstein said he is currently unable to endure the flights and lengthy van rides required for the European run.
“Unfortunately, we have to cancel this upcoming European tour. I have been touring for 36 years, and I’ve never canceled a tour. But due to my physical health at this point, I’m unable to get on plane flights and ride in the van for two weeks and catch two flights home.”
“So I do apologize and I understand y’all will be disappointed, understandably, but we’re gonna do everything we can to make up these shows.”
“We’re not rescheduling the tour, but just to make up these cities next year when we’re over in Europe with Crowbar. So thank y’all for understanding and all the best.”
While the canceled dates will not be rescheduled as part of the current run, Windstein indicated that Crowbar intend to return to the affected cities during a future European trek in 2027.
For now, the band’s focus will shift toward Windstein’s recovery as he begins treatment and works toward getting back on the road.
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