Joey Santiago, lead guitarist for the Pixies since 1986, has checked himself into a rehabilitation center to “treat his alcohol and drug issues,” according to a statement issued by the band this morning. The 51-year-old musician will spend at least 30 days in the facility, which the band says “will affect some of the band’s planned promotional activities.” A September 26 episode of episode of Conan, pointed out by Rolling Stone, will probably be the band’s highest profile cancellation, but they “fully intend to tour the UK and Europe this November and December.”
“This is the best thing that Joey could have done, and we’re very proud that he’s taken this step,” drummer David Lovering says in the statement. “We ask all of our fans to support Joey while he’s on this road to recovery.” Lovering himself has dealt with substance abuse issues, as documented in the 2006 tour film loudQUIETloud. Former bassist for the band Kim Deal has also had numerous and well-publicized bouts with drugs and alcohol.
The band’s newest album Head Carrier is scheduled to be released on September 30, and all signs point to it being some top-shelf Pixies.