On Friday of last week, former Smiths drummer Mike Joyce posted an image on his official Facebook page with his name next to bassist Andy Rourke and second guitarist Craig Gannon, along with the words "Summer 2018".
It was later reported yesterday that Joyce, Rourke and Gannon would be taking part in a concert series called ‘Classically Smiths’, but Rourke has now distanced himself from the concerts. In an email sent to Pitchfork, a representative for Rourke wrote: "Andy Rourke was never officially confirmed to take part in, license or authorize the use of his name for the Classically Smiths concert. The production company [Bad Production Ltd.] had hoped Andy Rourke would be a part of the project, but at no time was it approved by Andy Rourke or his team."
The representative further says: "Any quotes by Andy Rourke regarding this project are 100% fabricated and without approval." This is in response to quotes attributed to Rourke which appeared in the press release announcing the Classically Smiths concert series.
Rourke himself has also issued a statement, saying: "I am deeply saddened that during the week of the death of my dear friend Dolores O’Riordan, that false statements are made on my behalf. At no time did I give my consent for anyone in connection with this Classically Smiths project to act on my behalf or my name and nothing was ever confirmed, approved or contracted by me or my team."
