Sigur Rós drummer Orri Páll quits the band
Orri Páll Dýrason, the drummer of Sigur Rós has decided to leave the band due to rape allegations. A grievous decision, he writes on his Facebook page.
US artist Meagan Boyd has accused Dýrason of raping her in 2013 and published these accusations on her Instagram a few days ago.
Dýrason writes on Facebook:
"I begin with thanking my friends and relatives for the support you have shown. It is good for me feel for your trust, despite the serious public allegations against me.
This matter has undeniably taken its toll on me for the past few days. Justifiably, some will say, and I do not intend to argue with those people. However, I sincerely ask the same people to steer their anger into the right path and abstain from dragging my family, and especially my wife, into this matter. At the same time, I ask people to stay calm and not to be divided into two battling armies, these are not court proceedings, just Meagan’s words against mine, on the internet. Loud and provocative words are in nobody's favour – neither to me or her.
In light of the scale of this matter, I have decided to leave Sigur Rós. That is a difficult decision for me, but I cannot have these serious allegations influence the band and the important and beautiful work that has been done there for the last years. A job that is so dear to me.
I will do anything in my power to get myself out of this nightmare, but out of respect for those actually suffering from sexual violence, I will not take that fight public.
Love
Orri "
Dýrason joined Sigur Rós in 1999, shortly after they recorded their album Ágætis byrjun.