Post-hardcore veterans Dance Gavin Dance have officially announced the departure of their long-time clean vocalist, Tilian Pearson. After a significant 12-year tenure with the band, Pearson and Dance Gavin Dance are moving in different directions, signaling a new chapter for both the artist and the group.
Pearson joined Dance Gavin Dance in 2012, stepping in after Jonny Craig’s second exit, and quickly became an integral part of the band’s signature sound. His soaring clean vocals, a hallmark alongside Jon Mess’s chaotic screams, have defined Dance Gavin Dance for over a decade. Together, this lineup produced six critically acclaimed albums that solidified their place in the post-hardcore scene: “Acceptance Speech,” “Instant Gratification,” “Mothership,” “Artificial Selection,” “Afterburner,” and “Jackpot Juicer.” These albums represent a significant era for Dance Gavin Dance and showcase the collaborative songwriting and musical evolution with Tilian Pearson at the vocal helm.
The news of Tilian Pearson’s exit was shared via an official statement from the remaining Dance Gavin Dance members – Jon Mess, Will Swan, Matt Mingus, and Andrew Wells – on Instagram. The statement indicated that “creative differences” were the primary factor in this parting of ways. The band expressed gratitude for Pearson’s contributions and wished him well in his future musical journey. This amicable separation suggests a mutual understanding as both parties evolve creatively.
“We thank him for his years of friendship and contribution during his time in Dance Gavin Dance. As people grow and change, creative differences can arise and life paths and goals may no longer align.”
[It is not possible to insert images directly from Instagram embeds using markdown and direct URLs. If image screenshots were provided, they would be inserted here following the instructions. For example: “]
Tilian Pearson also addressed the departure on his own Instagram account, confirming his exit from Dance Gavin Dance and outlining his future plans. He emphasized that this marks the beginning of a “new chapter” for him, with a focus on his solo project, “Tilian.” Fans can anticipate new music soon, as Pearson is currently in the studio working on a forthcoming solo album, slated to be supported by live performances later in the year. His previous solo work includes the 2021 album “Factory Reset,” showcasing his artistic versatility beyond Dance Gavin Dance.
“Now It’s time for a new chapter. I will be focusing on making new music on a different canvas. I’m currently in the studio perfecting a new Tilian album and will be playing live shows to support it later this year.”
[Similarly, if a screenshot of Tilian Pearson’s statement was provided, it would be inserted here: “]
This isn’t the first time Tilian Pearson’s tenure with Dance Gavin Dance has faced disruption. In June 2022, Pearson temporarily stepped away from the band amidst allegations of sexual misconduct and struggles with substance abuse. Following treatment and a period of reflection, he rejoined Dance Gavin Dance in November 2022. The band subsequently completed touring for their “Jackpot Juicer” album in November 2023, and their final single with Pearson, “War Machine,” was released in October 2023.
The departure of Tilian Pearson marks the end of an era for Dance Gavin Dance. As both Dance Gavin Dance and Tilian embark on their separate paths, fans eagerly await the next musical endeavors from both parties. The legacy of Dance Gavin Dance with Tilian Pearson remains significant, and the future for both is keenly anticipated within the post-hardcore community and beyond.
