Longtime Alice Cooper guitarist Nita Strauss has issued a statement reacting to Alice Cooper replacing her with British guitarist Anna Cara, as reported on Instagram.
Strauss addressed her temporary departure from touring and expressed support for her replacement while she takes time off to welcome her first child.
“Wishing the AC/CA squad an incredible first show back tonight! The Welcome To Our Nightmare show and the Alice’s Attic tour to follow are truly some of the most fun and dynamic productions that I’ve been a part of and I already miss being out there with you guys!” Strauss said.
She explained her decision to step back from touring during this period of her life.
“For now, I will be sitting out the rest of the touring year and putting my energy where it’s needed most – finishing out a healthy pregnancy and welcoming our son into the world this summer,” she continued. “I look forward to getting back on the road and bringing our new +1 along for the ride when the time is right.”
Strauss also offered praise for her replacement, highlighting Anna Cara’s abilities.
“And of course, a very warm welcome to my sister in shred Anna Cara. When I was asked in an interview who I thought the best up and coming guitarist was, I had no hesitation in answering ‘Anna Cara of Crossbone Skully,'” she said. “Anna’s precision and soulful, emotional playing will make her an amazing asset to the Cooper tour!”
The guitarist concluded by reflecting on her time with Alice Cooper and expressing confidence in the tour’s future.
“Working with Alice for 12 years has been the experience of a lifetime and I look forward to seeing you all back on the road (with a +1 along for the ride!) Until that time comes, I know that the show is in good hands and the fans are in for a treat! Happy first show day Anna! Go show the world what you got!” she said.
The timing of this announcement coincides with Cooper’s upcoming tour commitments and Strauss’s personal milestone.
Guitar Player reported that the 22-year-old Cara from Newcastle, England, steps in ahead of Cooper’s Welcome To My Nightmare residency starting April 2 at the Criss Angel Theater in Las Vegas. This marks a significant moment for the young guitarist who will be performing on one of rock’s biggest stages.
Guitar World noted that Cara was handpicked by Strauss herself to be her replacement, demonstrating the trust and confidence the veteran guitarist has in her successor. Cara plays in Crossbone Skully, a band led by Cooper bandmate Tommy Henriksen. This has given her direct experience working within Cooper’s musical circle.
The young guitarist brings impressive credentials to the role. Louder Sound revealed that Cara has also toured with Krokus frontman Marc Storace, showcasing her versatility and experience performing with established rock acts despite her young age.
Strauss’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Alice Cooper’s band history. Blabbermouth confirmed that Strauss has been playing with Cooper since 2014 when she replaced Australian musician and former Michael Jackson player Orianthi, making her tenure with the shock rock legend over a decade long.
