The Jezabels scratch tour as keyboardist battles cancer

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The Jezabels (Photo by Cybele Malinowski)
The Jezabels (Photo by Cybele Malinowski)

Australian rockers the Jezabels have indefinitely postponed their world tour because keyboardist Heather Shannon is undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer. The band, which releases its new album “Synthia” on Feb. 12, had been slated to play the Roxy Theatre on April 8.

The band issued a statement explaining that Shannon was diagnosed with the disease three years ago, but the band has been able to carry on in between her treatments. Now, though, doctors have ordered her to remain in Sydney for immediate treatment.

Says Shannon:

“Up until now, I have preferred to not let this diagnosis get in the way of getting on with life. I feel a deep frustration at this new roadblock, as I now have to take a step back and undergo treatment. The band means so much to me, and cancelling the tour has been a very sad decision. I am hopeful that in the near future we will be back on the road again playing music we love. This album means so much to us, and we were so looking forward to sharing it live with everyone. Having said that, I feel very lucky to be in the care of the public health system here in Australia. I have met many inspiring people and I am receiving the best treatment possible.”