Progressive rock heavyweights Battles have announced that their vocalist and keyboardist Tyondai Braxton has left the band.
The news came shortly after the New York band announced its intentions to re-enter the studio to record a new album, their first since 2007's "Mirrored". An official statement from Battles explained that Braxton will pursue his solo career instead of continuing to play with the band.
"Battles and Tyondai would like to let their fans know they have chosen to follow their own musical paths.
Due to Battles' ambitions of finishing their second studio album followed by commitments to a full touring schedule in 2011, and Tyondai's own commitments as a solo artist and his desire not to tour, both Battles and Tyondai have decided to move on without each other.
It is a sad but amicable split.
Battles wishes Tyondai all the best"
Battles are expected to release their second studio album later this year.
