They Are Gutting a Body of Water’s Doug Dulgarian Diagnosed With Cancer

Doug Dulgarian, the driving force behind Philadelphia's shoegaze ensemble They Are Gutting a Body of Water, has recently revealed a cancer diagnosis that has led to significant changes in the band's upcoming schedule. The news, made public through Dulgarian’s Instagram, has prompted the cancellation of their North American tour initially slated to begin in late October.

The band had planned to embark on a tour starting October 29 in Baltimore, supporting their latest project, a mixtape titled Kool Faith / Loosies II. This release features a diverse roster of collaborators, including Spirit of the Beehive, Hotline TNT, RXK Nephew, Horse Jumper of Love, and Greg Mendez. Uniquely, the diagnosis came on the very day the mixtape was launched, a coincidence Dulgarian has acknowledged as a poignant marker in his journey.

Despite the interruption, They Are Gutting a Body of Water intends to maintain three scheduled performances in December. These include two shows in Brooklyn on the 9th and 10th, followed by a hometown appearance in Philadelphia on the 18th. These retained dates suggest a cautious optimism about Dulgarian’s treatment and recovery timeline.

In response to the diagnosis, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to support Dulgarian and the band during this challenging period. The initiative aims to assist with medical expenses and provide financial stability as Dulgarian undergoes treatment.

Dulgarian’s message conveyed a blend of realism and resilience. He emphasized that his announcement was not a call for sympathy but rather an effort to keep fans informed about the band’s status and his personal health. He expressed gratitude for the support offered by the music community and underlined how creativity and connection have become central to his sense of purpose.

The diagnosis has understandably brought a halt to the band’s broader touring plans, yet Dulgarian remains hopeful about the future. He referenced his history of confronting adversity and his belief that each life experience, even those marked by hardship, holds meaning and potential for growth.

This development marks a significant moment for They Are Gutting a Body of Water, a band known for its atmospheric soundscapes and collaborative spirit. As Dulgarian navigates treatment, the music community watches closely, hopeful for his recovery and eventual return to the stage.

While details about the specific nature of Dulgarian's cancer and the prognosis remain limited, the situation underscores the unpredictability artists face and the personal challenges behind their public work. The band’s decision to proceed with select shows suggests a determination to maintain their artistic presence despite difficult circumstances.

The timing of the diagnosis alongside the release of Kool Faith / Loosies II adds a layer of emotional complexity to the band's current chapter. The project itself, populated by close friends and collaborators, stands as a testament to Dulgarian’s deep ties within the indie and shoegaze communities.

As the band adjusts to these new realities, the focus remains on Dulgarian’s health and the support network surrounding him. Fans and peers alike continue to rally around the artist, reinforcing the vital role that community plays in both music and life during times of crisis.