Doc Neeson, frontman of Australian rock veterans The Angels, has been hospitalised witha brain tumour.
Though the pub rock icons had tour plans scheduled through February, all of the group’s forthcoming tour commitments have now been canned while the singer – who turned 66 on January 4 – undergoes immediate intensive care, set for radiation and chemotherapy treatment, over the next six to seven months.
An official statement from The Angels representatives at Spitfire Music reads:
It is with deep regret and shock that The Angels have to announce that Mr Doc Neeson was admitted to hospital over the recent Christmas/New Year period. He has just been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, (brain tumour). This will require immediate intensive radiation and chemotherapy treatment and will continue for the next 6-7 months.
Unfortunately, due to this, The Angels therefore have no choice but to cancel all their upcoming dates. The Angels would like to thank all the fans for their continued support and we wish Doc all the best for his treatment during this difficult time. The Angels look forward to seeing everyone again once Doc is given the all clear to return to the stage.
Sincerely, for and on behalf of The Angels,
Spitfire Music
Though Neeson had been involved in some nasty legal wrangling with former bandmates, leading to two lineups featuring rival members calling themselves The Angels springing up, Neeson’s newly forged lineup was to come together for the first time for forthcoming 100% Tour.
Featuring members crucial to the The Angels’ 28 years of rock history, including Doc Neeson, Bob Spencer, James Morley, Buzz Bidstrup and Jim Hilbun, but the five had never shared a stage before. The quintet were to hit the road in support the latest Angels album, Take It To The Streets.
Our Tone Deaf reviewer called the album “a step back to the blues rock that first inspired the band in its heyday,” with the band sounding “[the] most laidback and comfortable they have in years.” Adding that the now cancelled tour would be “an intriguing prospect to see how Neeson shapes up on the band’s classic back catalogue on the road.”
Unfortunately, that prospect will have to wait while the frontman undergoes the necessary treatment. Tone Deaf wish and hope Neeson a healthy recovery, and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.
The Angels’ cancelled tour dates are below and promoters have confirmed that full refunds are available at point of purchase.
The Angels 100% 2013 Australian Tour Dates
Friday 15th February 2013
Penrith Panthers, NSW
Saturday 16th February 2013
The Entrance Leagues, NSW
Friday 22nd February 2013
Vine Inn, Barossa SA
Saturday 23rd February 2013
Bridgeway Hotel, SA
Saturday 2nd March 2013
The Tivoli, QLD
Friday 8th March 2013
Port Macquarie Panthers, NSW
Saturday 9th March 2013
Club Forster, NSW
Friday 15th March 2013
Prince Of Wales Hotel, VIC
Friday 22nd March 2013
Canberra South Cross Club, ACT
Saturday 23rd March 2013
Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, NSW
