During the early hours of Monday morning, just hours after Damaged & Co. delivered a spectacular performance on the first day of MusicPlayground presents: Chaotic Playground: Metal,My True Love the band’s longtime keyboardist, Keith Muscat, took to Facebook to announce his retirement from the music scene.
Reflecting on a journey that began in 1989, Keith described the difficult decision as akin to “open-heart surgery.” In his heartfelt message, he acknowledged the unwavering support of those closest to him and expressed his need to step back to dedicate his full attention to them. Despite his love for music and live performances, he emphasized that family must come first.
“Life has many twists and turns, some of which are pleasant and others painful. There are special persons, who have dedicated their lives to support me, who now require my undivided attention. Therefore, with much regret, I am stepping back from what I love doing most. My time with bands, which started in 1989, will stop for the foreseeable future. Who knows? Maybe one day...”
While Keith’s departure marks the end of an era for Damaged & Co., he reassured fans that the band will continue to thrive.
“Damaged & Co. will go on better than before. It's hard to let go at this stage because this is a magical moment for us, but family comes first. Music, especially live performances, was my battle axe when fighting my inner demons, and I have plenty. Don't know what's coming next, but the Universe will provide.”
Keith has played a pivotal role in the local metal scene, previously being a member of Improbus Atrum, a melodic black metal band that released the EP Bearing The Mark in 2007. His contributions to Damaged & Co. have been instrumental, featuring on both their self-titled debut EP in 2022 and their full-length album Life's Grand Delusion in 2023. The band is already working on new material, three songs of which premiered during their recent gig.
His announcement sparked an outpouring of support and well wishes from friends and fans:
Philip ‘Bagigu’ Camilleri (Valiantis / Rogue):“Bad news indeed, my friend. But I'm sure your decision was harder on you than anyone else. Good luck for your future. Looking forward to when you come back to live music!”
Michael Bugeja (Rockna):“Sad news for the whole music scene. Wishing you and your family the best always Keith.”
Charlie Busuttil:“One of the nicest guys in the local scene… pity! Good luck buddy.”
Daniel Sammut (Damaged & Co.):“The guy that was always there to bounce ideas with and has always helped out with everything related to the band, from songwriting to organizing/finding gigs and everything in between, apart from being one hell of an amazing friend! You will be sorely missed to have around the practice space. Let's make the last two shows as memorable as possible!”
Peter Paul Valletta (Damaged & Co.):“You'll always be our big brother bear, the knowledge and experience you passed down to us is priceless but heartwarming. Keith Muscat you will always be part of this ship. Brother love man I'm seriously going to miss you.”
Despite stepping away from performing, Keith remains active in the music community and will continue to contribute articles to melodija.eu. The team at melodija.eu expressed their gratitude for his dedication and wished him and his family the very best for the future.
Keith's final performances with Damaged & Co. will take place at The Garage on February 22nd for Cirque Du Carnival and at Dark Malta Festival 2025, an event he considers his favourite festival—a fitting farewell for a musician who has given so much to the scene.
As Keith aptly put it:
“Are you ready for a few more turns? Rock 'n Roll will outlive us all!”
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