Eagles of Death Metal Drummer: ‘I’m Counting Down the Days Until I Get to Finish That Concert’

Julian Dorio, drummer for and founding member of The Whigs, is also Eagles of Death Metal‘s touring drummer. Dorio was playing with the California band in Paris on Nov. 13 when terrorists opened fire on the audience in Le Bataclan, claiming more than 80 lives.

Dorio, along with the other members of Eagles of Death Metal (Josh Homme was not in Paris on Nov. 13), escaped the concert venue alive. He immediately called his brother to assure him he was okay; his brother relayed the information to CNN while the attacks were still under way. 

Le Bataclan Manager on Paris Tragedy: ‘We Will Not Surrender’

On Tuesday (Nov. 24), Dorio broke his social-media silence to talk about the “unnecessary evil” that took place during one of the “most energetic crowds of our tour” and to pay homage to the band’s merch manager, Nick Alexander, who died in the attack.

While EODM have canceled all upcoming concerts indefinitely, Dorio writes on Instagram, “I’m counting down the days until I get to finish that concert.” Read his full thoughts below. 

 

November 13, 2015. I, along with my bandmates @eodmofficial, had the privilege to play to one of the most energetic crowds of our tour when, nearly half way through the show, the unimaginable occurred. Absolute and unnecessary evil turned our world on its head. I am beyond grateful that I was able to find a way out of the venue, but I am mourning those who did not, including our mate, Nick Alexander. My thoughts are with their families. I’m home safe. And now I have a new family abroad. To Arthur, who ran for his life right beside me and selflessly put us in a taxi before himself, thank you. To Fabrice, a fan who lent me his phone later that night so I could call @emilydorio and attempt to put her at ease, thank you. To everyone who, in the face of unrelenting evil, went toe to toe using courage, compassion, and love as their weapons. You all are my heroes. Last but certainly not least, the outreach and support back home is appreciated more than you’ll ever know. I will never forget it. I am forever changed but hold fast to the love around us. I’m counting down the days until I get to finish that concert. Peace & love.?–???—- #prayforparis #bataclan #eodm

A photo posted by Julian Dorio (@coolranchdorio) on Nov 24, 2015 at 5:21am PST