Big Thief Parts Ways With Max Oleartchik Due To ‘Interpersonal Reasons’

Big Thief announced the departure of founding bassist Max Oleartchik. The most massive change in the band’s nine-year history “was made for interpersonal reasons with mutual respect in our hearts” according to a statement revealing the move.

Max Oleartchik, Adrianne Lenker and Buck Meek formed Big Thief in 2015 with drummer James Krivchenia joining the band a year later. Oleartchik is featured on all five of the group’s full-length albums spanning 2016’s Masterpiece through Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You in 2022.

“After many beautiful years together, Max is no longer in Big Thief. Our love for each other is infinite, and we are so grateful for all we have shared these many years together since the beginning of our journey as a band,” began the note from Big Thief.

“We wouldn’t be who we are without Max. This separation marks the end of an era, and the beginning of a new one for Big Thief,” the band continued. “It’s a big change for us and the four of us ask for your trust, respect, and care as we grow into the next chapter of our lives.”

Big Thief did not reveal Oleartchik’s replacement, if they indeed decide to continue on as a four-piece. The band will perform at Project Pabst in Portland, Oregon on July 28.