Exit Chambers: Introducing Tea Leaf Reed

In one of the most stunning departures since JFK Jr. took off into the fog, Tea Leaf Green bassist Ben “Milky” Chambers today announced he’ll no longer be addressing the community.

Chambers made the shocking announcement earlier tonight, a decision nobody outside the San Francisco foursome and its inner circle could say they saw coming. The Beak says he wants to get off the road, and we can’t say we’d blame him if that’s indeed the case. Robbie Robertson put it best: “It’s a goddamn impossible way of life.” Here are Ben’s parting remarks:

After ten great years on the road as a touring musician, I have come to the realization that this life is not for me. As a result, I have decided to leave Tea Leaf Green to pursue some of my life’s other passions. I wish my brothers in the band only the best. Their future is surely bright. Most of all, I am so grateful to my family, friends, and fans. You’ve always encouraged my free spirit; thanks for your continued support.

The amazing part of this news surrounds how much Chambers had grown musically over the past few years. His energy has always inspired a crowd, but his artistic improvement was actually tangible. Both his outward on-stage personality and his contribution to the mix will be missed.

But while we’re certainly saddened to see such an integral member go his separate ways, the band acted quickly to not just fill his shoes but bust right through the toes. TLG confirmed Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey’s Reed Mathis will join the band henceforth, and no matter how much you love Chambers, you really have to consider that an immediate upgrade. Once Mathis masters the material, he’ll add a level of sheer nastiness to the proceedings we’ve never seen.

Change is always difficult, and I’m sure the band’s rabid fans are troubled by today’s news. Sometimes, however, change can be a positive catalyst, and that’s where I’m putting my money today.