Evan's "Boom Outta Here" Letter

Dear friends and fans of the Speedbumps,

I once said in a band interview "Friends become fans and fans become friends." I still hold that to be true. I have met many wonderful people through this band and had an amazing experience these past 3 years as the Speedbumps bassist -- I don't regret any day or moment spent with the band or our friends, fans and families. However, I feel I must move on. Simply put, the Speedbumps require more commitment than I am able to provide. They are an amazingly talented group and more importantly, some of my best friends. But while the band continues to advance and gain popularity, I am just not able to provide the time and dedication required to be their bassist. So I'm joining the circus. The rumors are true. I'm actually the world’s strongest man. Just kidding.

 I'm trying to write this without sounding arrogant and this is directed to mostly my friends I've made through the band so they can understand why I'm leaving. Erik, Sam, Patty and Micah are still my very good friends.  I still live with them at "The Boat House". There was never any conflict or big band fight that would've made great reality TV. I'm still playing shows when current bassist, Alfredo Guerrieri, can't make it and I still help out as much as I can. We're all still very good friends. In fact, the old Speedbumps bassist and I are also good friends. It's a bassist thing I guess. We're cool like that.

I met the new/current Speedbumps bassist, Alfredo, in West Lake at a gig. He was playing in the bar next door to the Speedbumps. We happened to be taking a smoke break at the same time.  I asked him who owned the F Bass leaning against the amp. He said it was his and we became instant friends.  A few months later I posted online that the Speedbumps were looking for a new bassist and he replied – the rest is history. He's an amazing bass player.  His talent and knowledge will only help push the Speedbumps into writing better songs and playing better shows.

 I guess I just wanted to write this quick note to say THANK YOU to all our friends, fans and families for your support. It's been an amazing experience with the Speedbumps. From the first band practice when everyone was 45 minutes late, to touring in an overeating van, to opening for Andrew Bird, being so nervous I could've thrown up.

 I tried to quit playing music 10 years ago and just couldn't kick the habit, so I'll still be around. Please stay in touch with me on myspace at www.myspace.com/evanlewisbass  -- I'm still playing bass in various projects around Ohio. I cherish the wonderful friends I've made during these last three years as the Speedbumps bassist and felt you deserve a thank you note from me.

 Thank you once again for your friendship. The Speedbumps will only continue to grow and advance in every way, and I'm honored to have been part of that.

Sincerely,

Evan "Shock and Awe" Lewis