By admin 
HangupsMusic.com – The vibrant pulse of the pop-punk community has been resonating with a mix of profound sorrow and heartfelt anticipation following recent announcements from New Found Glory. The iconic Florida outfit has confirmed the cancellation of their eagerly awaited appearance at the Aftershock Festival in Sacramento, a difficult but necessary decision steeped in the recent, tragic passing of their revered founding member and lead guitarist, Chad Gilbert. In a deeply personal and poignant turn, the band has revealed that their first live performances since Gilbert’s death will instead take place at the enchanting EPCOT within Walt Disney World Resort, transforming what was once a scheduled gig into an intimate, powerful tribute to a beloved bandmate and a dedicated Disney enthusiast.
The band, comprised of Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, and Cyrus Bolooki, conveyed their sentiments in a statement shared across their social media platforms, expressing profound gratitude for the outpouring of fan support since Gilbert’s passing. "Seeing how deeply he touched so many lives means everything to us, and we know he would be so proud to see it," they wrote, acknowledging the vast impact Gilbert had on countless individuals. The decision to withdraw from Aftershock, a major rock festival scheduled for the upcoming week, was articulated as a crucial step in allowing the band members the space and time required to process their grief and honor their fallen comrade. Canceling shows is a rarity for the veteran group, underscoring the extraordinary circumstances and the depth of their sorrow.
The rationale behind choosing Walt Disney World as the venue for their return to the stage is deeply personal and inextricably linked to Gilbert himself. Gilbert’s lifelong adoration for Disney was an open secret among his peers and fans, a passion that brought him immense joy and inspiration. The band revealed that the EPCOT dates were gigs Gilbert had been particularly excited about, actively involved in the planning, and fully intended to be on stage for. He had dedicated himself to working with his bandmates on the setlists, diligently practicing to ensure he was ready to perform. This context transforms the upcoming shows from mere concert dates into a sacred space for remembrance, a living testament to Gilbert’s spirit and his unwavering connection to both his music and his passions.
Chad Gilbert’s battle with cancer began in 2021 with a diagnosis of liver cancer, a challenge he faced with unwavering courage and public transparency. After a period of remission, the disease tragically returned as brain cancer, a battle he fought valiantly for six months before his passing on September 20. His wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his New Found Glory bandmates were the first to share the heartbreaking news, sparking an immediate outpouring of grief and tributes from across the music world. Throughout his illness, Gilbert maintained an inspiring resilience, sharing updates and remaining engaged with his musical pursuits, a testament to his fighting spirit and profound love for his craft.
Gilbert, who was just 17 years old when he co-founded New Found Glory in 1997 alongside Jordan Pundik, Ian Grushka, and Stephen Klein, quickly became the architect of the band’s signature sound. His role extended far beyond that of a lead guitarist; he was the primary songwriter, crafting the melodic hooks and lyrical honesty that defined New Found Glory’s place at the forefront of the burgeoning pop-punk scene of the late 90s and early 2000s. His distinctive riffage and melodic prowess were instrumental in shaping anthems that resonated deeply with a generation, establishing the band as an influential force within the genre.
Through more than a dozen studio albums and countless tours spanning the globe, Gilbert’s influence was palpable in every note and lyric. He possessed a unique ability to blend punk rock aggression with undeniably catchy pop sensibilities, a formula that yielded enduring hits like "My Friends Over You" and "Head on Collision," both of which he penned. These songs, among many others, showcased his capacity to infuse raw energy with emotional depth, solidifying New Found Glory’s reputation for delivering high-octane performances matched with relatable narratives of youth, friendship, and heartbreak. His guitar work was not merely technical; it was a driving force, providing the rhythmic backbone and melodic flourishes that became synonymous with the band’s kinetic live presence.
Gilbert’s impact also extended beyond his primary band. He was a respected figure within the wider music community, lending his talents to other artists. Notably, he contributed guest vocals on a track from Fall Out Boy’s seminal album From Under the Cork Tree, and his distinctive guitar riffs graced their 2007 song, "The Take Over, the Breaks Over." These collaborations highlighted his versatility and his standing as a sought-after musician and songwriter, further cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in the pop-punk and alternative rock landscape. His willingness to support and collaborate with peers underscored his passion for music in all its forms.
The upcoming EPCOT performances, now imbued with an extraordinary layer of emotional significance, are poised to be a cathartic experience for both the band and their devoted fanbase. New Found Glory affirmed their intention, stating, "Every note we play and every word you sing at Epcot is for Chad." This declaration transforms the concerts into a collective act of remembrance and celebration, a bittersweet convergence of grief and gratitude. For fans, it will be an opportunity to unite in their shared sorrow, to honor Gilbert’s life and musical contributions in a setting he cherished, making the live music experience a truly communal grieving process.
The band also shared the planned setlist for these poignant shows, featuring a collection of fan favorites that will undoubtedly resonate deeply in this new context. Tracks like "My Friends Over You," "Dressed to Kill," and "Hit and Miss" are not just songs; they are anthems that have soundtracked countless lives. Now, each chord and every lyric will be infused with the memory of the man who helped bring them to life, serving as a powerful, living memorial to his enduring spirit. These songs, once simply energetic pop-punk staples, will now carry an additional weight, a testament to the profound legacy of Chad Gilbert.
In their initial statement announcing his passing, Gilbert’s bandmates eloquently summarized his indelible impact: "Through more than a dozen albums, endless tours around the world, and more accolades than we ever could have imagined, Chad challenged all of us to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings. His influence will always be part of New Found Glory and his spirit will be felt on every stage we stand on, with every note we play." As New Found Glory prepares to take the stage at EPCOT, they do so not just as a band, but as torchbearers, carrying forward the vibrant legacy of a founding member whose musical genius and joyful spirit will forever echo through the pop-punk universe.
