Contributed by splendidtune, Posted by Warner Music Group

Longtime drummer Warren Oakes has left Against Me! after eight years in the band. He made the following statement:

I've spent the past 8 years making beautiful music with my best friends and sharing it with amazing people all over the world. I've had the honor and privilege of traveling with the most dedicated road dogs on the planet and sharing the stage with the greatest bands. I have been embraced by so many with such graciousness and hospitality and love. Thank you so much to everyone who helped make the dream a reality, especially Tom, James and Andrew. I've had the time of my life, and I owe it all to you.

Vocalist Tom Gabel's blog suggests that Oakes was fired from the band over a month ago. A May 1st entry reads:

We told Warren this afternoon that we are going to look for a new drummer. Andrew, James and I made the decision a couple days ago over lunch. I told them that I didn't want to play music with Warren anymore. They both agreed that this was a necessary step, it's been a long time coming. Warren's heart hasn't been in this for a while now.

Warren has opened a new Mexican restauraunt, Boca Fiesta in Gainesville, FL. Check out the menu here.