Arctic Monkeys Bassist Is Gone For Good

After sitting out the Arctic Monkeys' North American tour due to "fatigue following an intensive period of touring," bassist Andy Nicholson's absence from the band has now been declared permanent.

Nicholson's leave from the group was originally thought to be temporary, but this statement posted on the British buzz band's website on Monday announced that the bassist wouldn't be returning:

"We are sad to tell everyone that Andy is no longer with the band. 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."

The Sheffield quartet also announced that "Nick O'Malley, who stood in for Andy while he was absent from the recent tour of North America, shall carry on playing bass for the remaining shows this summer."

It's not yet known whether O'Malley, the former bassist for the Dodgems, will remain on board as a permanent member of the band.

The Arctic Monkeys played Toronto's Kool Haus on June 17, and signs of fatigue were evident.