Neal Francis, the keyboardist and singer-songwriter, has revealed a significant change to his band lineup. Longtime guitarist Kellen Boersma has departed, with Andy Gabbard stepping in to take his place.
Boersma had been with Francis for over five years, with his final performance taking place on August 13 at The Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett, New York. Gabbard officially joined the band, along with bassist Mike Starr and drummer Collin O’Brien, on September 1 at the Bumbershoot festival in Seattle.
Andy Gabbard, a solo artist and musician involved with several bands, brings substantial experience to the group. Originally from Cincinnati, Gabbard and his brother Zach were recruited in 2019 by The Black Keys as touring guitarist and bassist. The brothers also perform together as The Gabbard Brothers and have toured with The Black Keys ever since. They were previously members of Buffalo Killers and Thee Shams.
Neal Francis invited Boersma to join his band shortly after recording his debut solo album, Changes, in 2019. In an Instagram post, Francis addressed Boersma’s departure: “Some of you may have noticed that Kellen wasn’t present at these past few shows. It’s bittersweet to share that Kellen has decided to leave the band. We wish him love and success in his next chapter.”
A few days after announcing Boersma’s exit, Francis introduced Gabbard on Instagram, saying, “Andy Gabbard has been joining us on the road on guitar. Besides being an incredible solo artist, Andy is also the touring guitarist for The Black Keys. We’re having a great time playing and hanging with him.”
The new lineup performed together for the first time on September 6 at Rainbow Park in Silvertone, Colorado.
