French metal band Gojira has announced that drummer Mario Duplantier will be unable to attend the band’s upcoming U.S. festival appearances in July due to an unspecified immigration issue. Luigi Paraventi of Paleface Swiss has been confirmed as his temporary replacement.
The band shared a statement addressing the situation and expressing both their disappointment and gratitude for the last-minute solution.
“Hey everyone! Important update regarding our Festival performances. Mario is dealing with an immigration issue that has made it impossible for him to travel to the US in time for our shows. Mario is heartbroken not to be here with us and has fought hard every step of the way to find a solution.”
The band also took a moment to welcome their stand-in drummer and reassure fans ahead of the upcoming shows.
“We’re so grateful for the incredible Luigi Paraventi of Paleface Swiss, who has stepped in on short notice. Player 2 has entered the game — RESPECT. We can’t wait to see you all out there!!”
The affected shows span three consecutive days. Duplantier’s absence will be felt across Rock Fest on July 16, Upheaval Festival on July 17, and Inkcarceration on July 18 — three of the most prominent heavy music festivals on the American summer circuit.
Paraventi is a Brazilian drummer with considerable experience. He has previously performed alongside Kiko Loureiro and is currently active with Paleface Swiss. His band’s own touring schedule allowed him to step in for Gojira’s July dates without conflict.
Gojira confirmed the shows will proceed as scheduled with Paraventi behind the kit. The band is also slated to appear at Louder Than Life festival in late September, leaving open the question of whether Duplantier’s immigration situation will be resolved in time for that engagement.
Mario Duplantier is a co-founding member of Gojira and has been the band’s drummer since their formation in Bayonne, France in the early 1990s. His role extends beyond performing — he is also a visual artist responsible for much of the band’s iconic artwork, making him a central creative force in the group’s identity.
