As I am writing this, front man for metalcore band Of Mice and Men has left the band due to battling Marfan Syndrome. As a fan of Austin Carlile's music for over eight years I am devastated. After seeing him preform in not only Of Mice and Men, but also Attack Attack! this news personally hits me. Normally I am not one to get upset over seeing my favorite band members stop pursuing their music career anymore, but this one hits close to home.
Personally I feel everyone has a band or artist that they feel this way. The fundamental bands that got me into my music type, then followed with heavier music was because of artists like Of Mice and Men. It runs deeper than just simply not having any new music to look forward to anymore. I spent a portion of my life practically worshiping this band. From merchandise like tee shirts and bracelets, to even the song my first love and I used to call "our song," (When You Can't Sleep At Night.) Some of my best memories in car rides and concerts included the band's music.
Marfan syndrome not only effects physical traits, like tall and lankiness, but also causes fatigue. Marfan syndrome can cause heart murmurs, collapsed lungs, and effects all of the body's connective tissue. The pain and tiredness this man felt preforming night after night on countless tours. Opening for big artists like Slipknot and Marilyn Manson, being guest vocals for bands like Linkin Park, Suicide Silence, and Disturbed. A normal person with this disease would be crippled enough, but to preform on stage for hours, constantly moving around? It's a miracle Of Mice and Men was still preforming with Austin at their head. I hope the band keeps releasing music, and Austin recovers enough to continue his daily life.
