'Fatigued' guitarist quits Arctic Monkeys
A member of the record-breaking Arctic Monkeys who missed a recent international tour due to “fatigue” has now left the band for good, it emerged today.
Bass player Andy Nicholson did not accompany the Sheffield-based four-piece on their North America tour, sparking speculation about his future.
A statement posted yesterday on the band’s website has confirmed that his absence is permanent.
“We are sad to tell everyone that Andy is no longer with the band,” it said.
“We have been mates with Andy for a long time and have been through some amazing things together that no-one can take away. We all wish Andy the very best.”
Nick O’Malley, who has been standing in for Nicholson, will continue to play with the band “for the remaining shows this summer”, the statement added.
Last month the band – who play a festival in Germany this Friday – said Nicholson was taking a rest due to “fatigue following an intensive period of touring”.
It came as they prepared to begin their North American tour in Vancouver following 44 dates in the UK.
The band shot to stardom last year after their single I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor hit number one in the UK charts.
Their album Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not then became the fastest-selling debut in chart history, shifting more than 360,000 copies in its first week.
Music critics have pointed to the growing popularity of internet downloading as helping to propel the band to their incredible success.
As well as high chart placings, the band have also picked up numerous awards including Best British Breakthrough Act at this year’s Brits and three NME Awards including Best British Band.
