Y&T Bassist Diagnosed With Cancer

Bassist Phil Kennemeore of California rock veterans Y&T has released the following statement:

"To all of my dear friends and fans around the world and on the [official Y&T] forum, up to now you haven't heard much information (other than about my extreme back pain) because there really hasn't been much until now. I hated leaving you all in the dark but I didn't want to say anything until there was something conclusive to say. We do have a lot more information now. The number one thing you need to know is that I have cancer. It wasn't absolutely formally diagnosed until yesterday.

"With the bad news I also got the good news that along with surgery and treatments, I will be back rockin' and rollin'. I'll be getting a hip replacement as well as back surgery, which means I'll also be more agile. The doctor said that this is treatable and I'll be walking out of this place and I'll be able to go on the road and do everything I need to do to continue my rock 'n' roll life, in due time.

"I wanted to thank everyone for your well wishes. I've been sitting here in the hospital reading all of the things that you've all posted online, and I want you to know it means so very much to me to see how much I am loved, supported, and missed. I can really feel the love as I'm reading.

"I love reading your posts on the web site forum, and, in fact, I need to hear it. From here on out, whatever thoughts and feelings you have, please know that I wish that I could personally respond to each and every one of you, but I'm not able to right now.

"Brad [Phil's temporary replacement Brad Lang, who previously played with Jeff Pilson (DOKKEN, FOREIGNER, DIO) in WAR & PEACE] — thank God for Brad! I'm so grateful that he stepped in to help keep Y&T on tour, bringing 'Facemelter' to the people while I was ordered to the hospital. Right now I think he's the best guy on earth!

"I'll be released from the hospital within three-to-four weeks, continuing treatment, and at some point, I'll be returning to the road.

"Keep the love and good vibes flowing.

"Do me a favor and go out and see the band now — Y&T is kicking serious ass — and I'll be back rocking with you all soon."

Y&T's current lineup is rounded out by original guitarist/vocalist Dave Meniketti, along with longtime members John Nymann (guitar) and Mike Vanderhule (drums).

Y&T's first studio album in 13 years, "Facemelter", was released in Europe on May 21 via Frontiers Records.

As the title indicates, "Facemelter" is a hard-rockin', song-oriented album that lives up to its name: it captures the band's raw energy and tightness that they've become known for. Featuring heavy grooves, powerful guitars, and strong melodies, the band shows their versatility, delivering a range of high-energy rockers, mid-tempo head-bangers, modern rock grooves, majestic ballads, and signature Y&T rock anthems. To mark the return, the band engaged John Taylor Dismukes — the same artist who designed covers for Y&T's classic albums "Mean Streak", "Black Tiger" and "In Rock We Trust" — to create the amazing art of the new "Facemelter".