Raven Postpone European Tour After John Gallagher Surgery

Raven have postponed their summer and autumn 2025 European tour after bassist and vocalist John Gallagher suffered a subdural haematoma. Gallagher was admitted to hospital on August 12 after developing a severe headache, and scans revealed bleeding around the brain.

Doctors performed an initial operation the following day and a second, more invasive procedure on August 19. The band say Gallagher is recovering well but cannot fly or undertake a concert tour while recuperating.

The bassist and vocalist required two brain operations and cannot fly while he continues his recovery.

Raven are working with Dragon Productions and individual promoters to reschedule the affected dates. The group noted that cancellations have been extremely rare during its 50-year career and assured fans that it intends to return once Gallagher receives medical clearance.

The postponement interrupts touring for the “Can’t Take Away The Fire” EP, released through Silver Lining Music in February 2025. The record continued Raven’s high-speed combination of New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, power metal and early speed metal.

Founded by John and guitarist Mark Gallagher, Raven became an important touring bridge between the British metal movement and the emerging American thrash scene. Their early-1980s United States tours famously gave Metallica and Anthrax formative road experience. The current lineup also includes drummer Mike Heller. Revised European dates will be announced after Gallagher’s recovery schedule becomes clearer.