US pop punkers Modern Baseball have announced they have had to pull out of the lineup of next month’s Poison City Weekender and cancel their planned Australian tour, citing mental health reasons as motivating the decision.

Co-frontman Brendan Lukens took to social media this morning to break the news to fans, writing a heartfelt missive in which he explained that the decision to cancel the tour dates was made with “much difficulty”.

“I’ve spent most of my life struggling with anxiety and depression, and after the last few months it’s evident that it’s time to put everything else aside to focus on making steps towards positive mental health,” he wrote.

“Like I said before, thank you to everyone who has been so understanding through all of this, the continuous support Modern Baseball and myself have received since 2011 is so amazing; and I (we) could never thank you all enough.”

Lukens insisted that an Australian visit is still on the cards for the future and that this is simply a postponement. “We promise to make it to the UK and Australia soon, until then keep doing what you’re doing yall,” he wrote.

In a statement, Poison City Weekender organisers wrote they understand “the seriousness and importance of mental health, and wish Brendan (and the band) all the best as they take the first positive steps on a difficult road”.

“All planned co-headline shows with Iron Chic will still be happening with replacement from Self Defense Family, Apart From This and Postblue on various dates,” they added. “Optional ticket refunds for select dates will be available from point of purchase.”

Hi Everyone,I just wanted to thank everyone for being so understanding and supportive during this time. It is with…

Posted by Modern Baseball onMonday, August 24, 2015

WEEKENDER UPDATE:In some sad and unfortunate news, Modern Baseball have had to withdraw from their upcoming Australian…

Posted by poison city records onMonday, August 24, 2015

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