Kim Deal Quits Pixies

Pixies founding member Kim Deal has left the influential US band, having played bass with them since 1986.

The band yesterday posted a short announcement about Deal's departure on Pixies Facebook page, simply stating: "Kim Deal has decided to leave the Pixies."

Deal is currently touring the UK and Ireland with her other band The Breeders and has not yet made a statement about leaving Pixies herself.

Pixies' posting indicated the parting was on good terms, wishing her the best and adding, "We will always consider her a member of the Pixies, and her place will always be here for her."

The band had previously broken up in 1993, before reforming in 2004. During the period of the break-up, The Breeders experienced big successs with their Last Splash album. In recent years Deal has been recording and touring both bands.

The Breeders current world tour, a 20th anniversary celebration of Last Splash, will bring Deal back to Australia in October.