March 6, 2007 2:33

Secret Machines announce guitarist's departure

Benjamin Curtis will focus on new project

Secret Machines' guitarist Benjamin Curtis has left the band to focus on a new project, School of Seven Bells, it was announced this weekend.

Frontman Brandon Curtis dropped the news of his brother's departure in a posting on the Secret Machines' message board.

He wrote: "After 7 and 1/2 years of playing music together Benjamin has decided to no longer be a part of the band. It is a sad day but also an exciting one as he prepares to focus full time on his new creative venture, School of Seven Bells.

"He has told me that he expects to be finished with a new record very soon as well as there being plans in the works to play some shows here in New York debuting the band. Of course Josh (Garza drummer) and I wish him all the best."

Curtis also confirmed that Secret Machines have begun work on their third album, and plan to start the recording process in May.

School Of Seven Bells release their limited edition debut single 'My Cabal' via Sonic Cathedral Recordings on April 16. It comes backed with a Robin Guthrie remix.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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