A BRITISH heavy metal band has been forced to scrap its European tour after its frontman suffered a medical emergency.
The group, formed in Newcastle in 1974, are famed for hit single On and On and have clocked up 15 studio albums.
Now Raven have addressed their fans, dubbed "Raven lunatics, on a message on social media after their Can't Take Away The Fire gigs were cancelled.
It comes as lead singer and bassist John Gallagher, 66, was forced to undergo brain surgery.
In a message posted to social media, the band wrote: "RAVEN LUNATICS.
"GOT SOME UNFORTUNATE NEWS FOR YOU!
"We are very sad to say that we have to postpone the upcoming European Tour due to John's health.
"He was admitted to hospital with a massive headache on August 12th. Following a CAT scan, it was determined that he was suffering from a bleed on the brain, Subdural Hematoma.
"Surgery was planned for the next day, then a further, more invasive surgery was performed on the 19th.
"He is now doing good, but of course, needs to recuperate and will not be able to fly on a plane."
The gigs were due to begin in the Netherlands on September 5 and wrap on September 20 in Barcelona, Spain.
Along the way, they were due to play in Greece and Italy as well as Belgium, Germany, Austria and Cyprus.
Their statement added: "Very few shows have ever been cancelled in our 50 year career.
"We would like to thank our booking agent Bart Gabriel, the promoters and of course all the Raven Lunatics who were coming to the shows for your understanding.
"We will be BACK – STRONGER than ever! Rock Until You Drop!
John, Mark and Mike."
In another update posted to Facebook, they added: "We would like to thank everyone for their supportive posts and messages for John!
Raven Cancelled Tour Dates 2025
HEAVY metal group Raven has been forced to cancel its European tour dates.
It comes after frontman John Gallagher had brain surgery.
The gigs were due to begin in the Netherlands on September 5.
The band were then due to play on:
- Sept 6, Netherlands
- Sept 7, Belgium
- Sept 9, Germany
- Sept 10, Italy
- Sept 12, Austria
- Sept 13, Germany
- Sept 14, Germany
- Sept 16, Cyprus
- Sept 17, Greece
- Sept 18, Greece
- Sept 19, Greece
- Sept 20, Spain
"Raven and their management are working with our agency and the promoters to reschedule the affected European 2025 dates!"
RAVEN LOWDOWN
The band has carved out a reputation for being a frontrunner in the thrash metal genre.
They also headlined Metallica's first-ever national tour in 1983.
Yet John's medical emergency isn't the only health woe for the group.
Back in 2001, a wall collapsed on guitarist Mark and crushed his legs.
This prompted a three year hiatus for the group while he recovered.
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