Goose Announces Permanent Split With Percussionist Jeff Arevalo

UPDATE: Monday, March 24 10:40 a.m. PT — Former Goose percussionist Jeff Arevalo issued a statement responding to the band’s announcement of his dismissal from the group. Arevalo’s termination was revealed in a statement shared yesterday by the remaining members of Goose.

Arevalo’s response has been added to the updated original article below.

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Goose has cut ties with percussionist Jeff Arevalo. The decision was announced on the band’s social media channels today and comes after Arevalo began a touring hiatus last month.

“We have been made aware of behavior in Jeff’s personal life that does not align with the band’s core values. As a result, Jeff will no longer be a part of the Goose organization,” began the note from Goose.

“This is an incredibly unfortunate, unexpected situation, and we did not anticipate having to make another painful change to the band,” the statement continued. However, it is clear that this is the only way forward, as we remain committed to upholding the values that define our community, particularly when it comes to respecting others and creating a safe environment. No further explanation of the offending behavior was provided.

The previous “painful change” referenced was drummer Ben Atkind's departure. Goose parted ways with their founding drummer in December of 2023. Cotter Ellis replaced Atkind.

Ellis, guitarist Rick Mitarotonda, guitarist/keyboardist Peter Anspach and bassist Trevor Weekz hit the road for a brief winter tour as a quintet last month and ended the statement announcing Arevalo’s departure on a hopeful tone: “This past tour was an unexpected challenge to navigate, but through it all, the four of us forged a deeper connection on and off stage. We’re feeling inspired to continue growing as a unit as we move into this next chapter, and are deeply grateful for everyone with us on this journey.”

Jeff Arevalo joined Goose in 2020 as percussionist and auxiliary musician. The Cincinnati native also played upright bass in the acoustic side project Orebolo. Arevalo’s responsive statement confirmed Orebolo was also ending along with his time in Goose.

On February 3, a post on Goose’s social feeds announced Arevalo was taking a hiatus from the road. “After much reflection, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from current touring to focus on my mental health and personal issues,” wrote Arevalo at the time. “As much as I love making music and being on stage, I’ve come to realize that in order to continue giving my best to loved ones, to the band and to all of you, I need to take this time to reset, heal and prioritize my well-being. I truly appreciate your understanding and support.”

Goose will return to the stage next month in New Orleans when they make their Jazz Fest debut on April 24. The band will then host the inaugural Viva El Gonzo destination event in San José del Cabo, Mexico May 8 – 10. While Orebolo was part of the lineup for the concert vacation, the set has been turned into an acoustic Goose performance.

Read the statement shared by Goose, and Arevalo’s response regarding his separation from the band, below:

Goose Statement

Jeff Arevalo Statement