In news that has left many fans stunned, David Friedrich has officially parted ways with Electric Callboy after 13 years behind the drum kit. The announcement came quietly but landed loud, especially for those who’ve followed the band since their chaotic Eskimo Callboy beginnings.
David Friedrich wasn’t just a drummer for the band, he was part of its DNA. From the earliest breakdowns to the more recent dance-metal anthems, his presence was always felt. Whether you first saw him in a sweaty German club in 2012 or caught one of the band’s huge festival sets in the last few years, Friedrich’s tight, relentless drumming was a core part of what made the band tick.
He played through the band’s stylistic evolution, helping them carve out a space that was sometimes goofy, often heavy, and always entertaining. Tracks like We Are the Mess, Crystals, and the viral smash Hypa Hypa wouldn’t hit the same without the beat he brought to them.
The official reason for his departure hasn’t been laid out in full, but it doesn’t appear that there was any drama. Both Friedrich and the band released short statements that were respectful and full of appreciation. This doesn’t seem like a mid-tour meltdown or behind-the-scenes tension, more like the natural, if painful, end of a long chapter.
“It’s been an unforgettable ride,” Friedrich wrote in a personal message to fans. “But after 13 years, I feel it’s time to explore something new.”
And honestly, who can blame him? Thirteen years in any band, let alone one that tours constantly and reinvents itself every album, is a marathon. It’s not hard to imagine the physical and creative toll that kind of run takes. Sometimes, stepping away is the healthiest thing an artist can do.
As for what’s next, Friedrich hasn’t said. Maybe another band. Maybe a break. Maybe something completely unexpected. But one thing’s certain, he’s not done making noise.
Electric Callboy, for their part, aren’t slowing down. They’ve already announced that they’ll be bringing in session drummers for the time being, with plans to find a permanent replacement when the time feels right. Knowing this band, there’s probably a curveball or two coming, but they’ve built a career on surprising people, and thriving on change.
Still, for fans, this one stings. It’s not easy saying goodbye to someone who’s been part of the soundtrack for over a decade. But if you’ve followed this band for any length of time, you know one thing: the show never stops.