The Cure announced Saturday that bass player Simon Gallup had stepped away from playing a European concert because of an illness with his son filling in.
The band told fans on a social media post that shortly before a July 10th Berlin concert Gallup “was taken ill.” Eden, Gallup’s son, “shifted sideways to save the show” by taking over bass duties.
The band did not identify the illness ailing Gallup or give any other details about his condition. “Simon is still not well enough to play,” The Cure said in the post, adding that Eden was playing bass again at the second night of three in the German capital, which took place Saturday night. The English group asked fans to join them in wishing Simon “the speediest of recoveries” and thanking Eden. The band didn’t mention anything about if Simon will play the third night of the Berlin residency or when he’s expected to return to the tour.
The language from the band’s post doesn’t hint at any cause for concern despite the sudden onset of their bass player’s illness. Simon’s absence seems as if it will be short term.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame bassist has played with The Cure since 1979 with only a couple stints away. He is 66 years old.
The Cure are currently on tour in Europe after making a return to the stage at Primavera Sound following a two year absence from playing live. The band won their first Grammy this year.
