The Lil Smokies To Take ‘Moment To Reflect’ After Colorado Shows, Cancel All Future Dates

On the eve of the release of their first studio album in five years, The Lil Smokies made a shocking announcement. The Montana-based string band will take an indefinite hiatus following this weekend’s shows in Colorado.

The Lil Smokies explained primary vocalist and dobro player Andy Dunnigan will miss the three-night run through Colorado due to “personal health reasons.” Dylan Flynn will join the band for their shows in Frisco tonight (Thursday, April 3), Denver tomorrow (Friday, April 4) and Fort Collins on Saturday, April 5. The quintet canceled all remaining performances beyond the Colorado concerts.

Break Of The Tide arrives tomorrow and marks The Lil Smokies’ first LP since the release of Tornillo in 2020. The 11-track collection is also the band’s first with new members bassist Jean Luc Davis and banjo player Sam Armstrong-Zickefoose, who join the core trio of Dunnigan, guitarist Matthew “The Reverend” Rieger and fiddler Jake Simpson.

“We are currently undergoing a change in our lineup for this weekend’s upcoming shows in Colorado. Andy is taking a leave due to personal health reasons; we kindly request that you join us in extending our collective love and support to him during this time,” began the note from The Lil Smokies on social media.

“We are pleased to announce that Dylan Flynn will be joining us on dobro for our upcoming performances in Frisco, Denver, and Fort Collins. Following these shows, we will be taking a moment to reflect and plan for the future but will be canceling all upcoming performances. While the path ahead remains uncertain, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our musical journey and the community that has sustained us,” the statement continued.

“These performances will also serve as a heartfelt tribute to our time in Colorado and our last shows for the foreseeable future. We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the cherished memories we have created together,” added the band. “From the depths of our hearts, we are profoundly grateful for your unwavering support and encouragement. Your dedication has been an invaluable source of inspiration through our time as The Lil Smokies.”