After a weekend of rumors circulating message boards, fan groups and Reddit, two statements made it official on Sunday night: Allen Aucoin, the steady and reliable drummer for the Disco Biscuits since 2005, will no longer be a part of the Philadelphia-based jamtronica band.
The band and Aucoin parting ways was seen as a shock to the vast majority of the fan base, a great deal of whom voiced their support for Aucoin’s role in the band, his consistency and role as a ‘human drum machine,’ keeping the beat always steady for the trancefusion pioneers.
Aucoin replaced founding drummer Sammy Altman, who departed the band in August 2005. Aucoin emerged as the popular choice following a November 2005 Drum Off in Atlantic City, that saw Aucoin, then of Skydog Gypsy, emerge as the fan favorite and best fit. For two decades and over 1,000 shows, Aucoin was an undeniable machine of a drummer behind the kit, filling huge shoes in the process and quickly gaining the respect and admiration of Biscuits fans.
Both Aucoin and the remaining band members – Jon “Barber” Gutwillig, Marc Brownstein and Aron Magner – released statements around 5pm on Sunday evening, each offering their own take on parting of ways, and allowing fans to judge the matter based on the tone and message in each statement.
The statement from Gutwillig, Brownstein and Magner reads,
“It seems rumors got ahead of our formal announcement. After much consideration, we’ve decided to part ways with Allen. While this news may feel sudden, it comes after many years of reflection, conversations, and attempts to wok through challenges, as with any long relationship that experiences its ups and downs.
To address the speculation, this decision was not made lightly, nor was this a financially-driven decision. Communication, creative direction and the ability to connect on and off stage are all things that we’ve been trying to navigate for quite some time. This is a 20+ year friendship, and sometimes things just don’t align the way they once did.
After more than a thousand shows together, Allen’s contributions have shaped our music and journey in countless ways.
Looking ahead, we’re genuinely excited for what’s next. We’re thrilled to welcome Marlon B. Lewis behind the kit for the remainder of the year. Our Fall Tour and all 2026 dates will move forward as planned. We look forward to this next chapter of The Disco Biscuits, filled with growth, exploration, and new music.“
– Jon, Marc and Aron.
Aucoin posted his response a few minutes later.
“After 20 incredible years with the Disco Biscuits, the band is moving forward without me. There were multiple reasons for this decision by the band, and it was not solely financially driven.
I wish them continued success. I’m deeply grateful to the fans, crew and everyone who has supported me through two decades of touring, recording and creating something truly special together.
My commitment to the music – and to all of you – remains strong, and I look forward to what the future holds.
Thank you for the love, the energy, and the unforgettable shows.“
Blessings, Love and Light.
AAA (Allen A. Aucoin)
Ahead of the statements released Sunday, on Saturday evening, guitarist Gutwillig shared what can only be described as a diss track, reportedly using Aucoin’s own words in the hastily created track. It was live on Gutwillig’s Soundcloud for mere hours before being pulled down. The recovered “I Don’t Talk” can be heard below.
Filling the void left by Aucoin is Marlon B. Lewis, drummer for Brownstein’s side-project Star Kitchen. Lewis has worked with John Legend, Ro James, Brian McKnight, Ms. Lauryn Hill and French Montana, and studied at Berklee College of Music.
The Disco Biscuits kick off their fall tour at Hulaween with three sets on October 31. Discover more upcoming dates here.
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