Shed 7 guitarist Paul Banks has quit after nearly seven years with the band.
Banks told NME: "I felt that my time in Shed 7 had run its course and it was time for a change. I think the band were shocked by my announcement but it all ended amicably and I wish them all the best in the future. I'm sure they'll have continued success."
Banks has already been replaced by Shed 7's original guitarist Joe Johnson, who left in 1993. Johnson wrote 'Dolphin' and several tracks on the band's 1994 debut album 'Change Giver' before quitting. The band have also instated long-time keyboard player Fraser Smith as a permanent member.
Singer Rick Witter was anxious to stress this does not mean the end of Shed 7, who are unsigned but recording new material.
He said: "When I was young and used to read about bands splitting 'cos of musical differences I used to think that was a bullshit excuse. But recently that's become the case with Shed 7. Paul felt his music was going in a different direction and decided to seek pastures new.
Banks has formed a new band with ex-Seahorses bass player Stu Fletcher. They are working on demos and auditioning singers.
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