During the official closing of the First Day tour at the Daugava Stadium in Liepāja, Latvian band Prāta Vētra performed without their long-time bass player Ingars Viļums, according to a report by Gita Vīksne. The absence of the musician, who has played with the group for 22 years, drew immediate attention from concertgoers and sparked questions about potential lineup changes within the band.
The Reason Behind the Bassist’s Absence in Liepāja
According to the musician, his absence was planned and coordinated with the other members of the group. On the same evening, Ingars Viļums performed at Trikāta pilskalns alongside singer Antra Stafeckas for their concert titled “Manas zemes sirds” (The Heart of My Land). “There is a lot created and nurtured by myself there, which is why it is especially dear and close to me,” the musician explained to Gita Vīksne. “It is impossible to tear me out of it or replace me, so I chose to be there on that day.”
While Viļums played in Trikāta, substitute bassist Kristaps Ērglis filled in for the performance at the Daugava Stadium. Viļums noted that the core lineup of Prāta Vētra consists of four members, while he serves as the fifth musician accompanying them on stage. “This was the first time someone replaced me,” he stated, adding that every musician ultimately chooses what matters most to them at any given moment.
Did you know?
Ingars Viļums has collaborated with Prāta Vētra for 22 years as their bass player, making his absence at the Liepāja tour finale the first time that he was substituted during a live performance.
Future Lineup Plans for Prāta Vētra
Addressing speculation regarding a permanent departure from the band, Ingars Viļums confirmed to Gita Vīksne that he will continue to appear as part of the group’s roster moving forward. The scheduling conflict arose purely from overlapping commitments between the band’s tour finale and his long-anticipated collaborative project with Antra Stafeckas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Ingars Viļums permanently replaced in Prāta Vētra?
No. According to the musician, his absence was temporary and coordinated in advance due to a scheduling conflict with another concert. He confirmed that he will remain part of the group’s lineup for future performances.
Who played bass for Prāta Vētra at the Liepāja concert?
Bass guitarist Kristaps Ērglis substituted for Ingars Viļums during the Daugava Stadium performance, marking the first time in 22 years that Viļums was replaced on stage.
Where was Ingars Viļums performing instead?
He performed at Trikāta pilskalns alongside singer Antra Stafeckas for the concert program titled “Manas zemes sirds.”
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