AFI Call Out Former Bassist for Selling Reissues of Original Recordings [Update]
Relationships can be tricky, especially for bands who have enjoyed any significant length of service or have endured turnover in the lineup. AFI are currently dealing with one of their former members -- bassist Geoff Kresge -- bringing attention to the fact that the musician has been selling reissues of the band's original recordings.
Kresge was the band's bassist between 1992-1997, appearing on the group's Answer That and Stay Fashionable and Very Proud of Ya albums before Hunter Burgan took over the spot for all of the band's releases since. Kresge also appeared on a number of EPs and live albums put out under the Key Lime Pie label.
In their new posting on the matter, the group states that they don't begrudge Kresge feeling reflective toward their music, but question why he assumed control of the shared Key Lime Pie label and released the records without notifying or consulting with the other members. Check out their full posting on the matter below:
Our former bass player, Geoff Kresge, is selling reissues of original AFI recordings. While we remain proud of every era of our 26 year existence, and certainly do not begrudge Geoff feeling reflective towards the four years he spent with us before he quit, we are confused why he has taken it upon himself to assume control of the shared Key Lime Pie label and release these records without notifying or consulting us. We had always loved the fact that these releases were special limited edition items, pieces of history that we wanted to keep rare. Geoff has begun accepting pre-orders of the Dork EP and is including on it an unreleased song which he wrote no part of, without getting permission from the co-owners and songwriters. Geoff has never paid anyone in the band, including Mark Stopholese, their share of the proceeds of these sales, despite our repeated requests that he do the right thing and pay our shares. While we do feel for what we can only assume is Geoff’s financial need, it simply is not fair for one person – a person who left the band willingly in 1996 - to benefit to the exclusion of the other owners of these recordings and writers of the songs. As fans, of course, we support your right to buy as you please, but we wanted you to know that we do not support these sales.
Update: After AFI's post, Geoff Kresge offered his own statement on the matter. It reads as follows:
Dear AFI fans, friends, and family:
It’s unfortunate that the band has decided to not participate in this part of their history and in turn, make incorrect and untrue remarks about why these records exist.
To set the record straight, we HAVE indeed accounted to AFI for sales of these records, whilst the band is reporting otherwise, is unfortunate and untrue. Additionally, the DORK release is at a pre-order stage and no royalties would be due at this point.
Additionally, Key Lime Pie Records is not a joint venture, partnership or otherwise anything but a business entity solely owned by Geoff Kresge. Geoff paid for these records to be released originally, and is choosing to re-issue them, and he is completely within his rights to do so, contrary to the band’s erroneous statements.
Since the band are choosing to make incorrect and defamatory remarks about Mr. Kresge, the choice to own these records is up to you (the fans). We appreciate all the business that you have given us, and we will continue to offer you quality products in the future.
AFI are currently promoting their 2017 release, AFI (The Blood Album). The band has a handful of shows both this month and in September. See their current tour schedule here.
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