The Charlatans were joined by drummer Jon Brookes for a recent encore in Birmingham.
The dogged survivors of British indie rock, The Charlatans were left reeling recently when drummer Jon Brookes collapsed onstage in the United States. Rushed back to Britain, it was discovered that the musician was suffering from a brain tumour.
Immediately undergoing treatment, Jon Brookes was forced to sit out the band’s recent UK tour. The Charlatans drafted in a replacement, playing a series of emotional shows around the country.
Jon Brookes kept a revealing blog, detailing his ongoing treatment. The drummer is now on the mend, and decided to re-join The Charlatans for an encore on the final night of their British tour.
The show in Birmingham on Saturday (October 23rd) marked the first time the band had been united since September. Speaking on The Charlatans official website, Jon Brookes thanked the Birmingham crowd for their assistance.
“A huge feeling of goodwill came head on towards me as over 2000 Charlatans fans let me know that I was welcome back on stage” he said. “I took the deepest breath and tried to let it flow. I hope it sounded OK, but to be honest I have no real measure, it was like I would imagine doing the 100 metres in the Olympic games would feel like!! But please let me say thanks again to the Academy crowd for a top night!!”
Continuing, Jon Brookes revealed that he DJ’d at the after party. “I was feeling really good after my brief live appearance at the Academy and enjoyed speaking to so many people who were out for a good night. I DJ’ed all night with the help of Martin, then Deb and I managed to get back to my hotel just before dawn and fell into a deep sleep.”
“As for my health I’d like to say that I’m feeling strong and positive and have received amazing support from friends and family, doctors and medical specialists.”
