Our best wishes go out to Cloud Cult singer Craig Minowa, who was hospitalized last Thursday with heart problems and will likely undergo noninvasive heart surgery within a few weeks. Of course, this means that Cloud Cult will not be able to perform at the Current 89.3 FM sixth anniversary party on Friday at First Avenue. Trampled by Turtles will graciously fill in their slot, coming back right on the heels of their sold-out two-night stand at First Ave last weekend. TBT will presumably take over Cloud Cult's scheduled time slot and open the show at 8:30 (nothing like starting out big). This is the second health-related cancellation for the Current bash: Atmosphere had to drop out right before the lineup was announced due to Slug's knee surgery. Brother Ali then stepped in for his pals. It says something about the Current and the communal spirit of our scene on the whole that these name-brand replacements were so easily had.

Cloud Cult already ended 2010 with some surprise news: Minowa's longest-serving musical companion, cellist/singer Sarah Young, has quit the group along with her husband and the band's longtime manager, Adrian Young. The couple is expecting their third child and understandably did not want to continue touring. Minowa pledged to carry on strong in 2011, though, and planned more tour dates. It sounds like he still expects to live up to that pledge.

Here is the message that Cloud Cult is sending out to fans regarding Minowa's situation:

Cloud Cult has announced the cancellation of the band's upcoming performances at First Avenue (January 21) and Lutsen (February 5). On Thursday, Cloud Cult's Craig Minowa was hospitalized with heart issues. Although the condition necessitates a temporary hiatus from performances, doctors are suggesting a noninvasive heart surgery would likely be performed in the next few weeks to bring permanent remedy to the problem. We apologize for any complications and we look forward to returning with more energy than ever in the coming months.