Evanescence Band Members Dropping Like Flies

Evanescence singer Amy Lee has revealed that bassist William Boyd is no longer with the group.

"A few weeks ago, Will decided to leave the band," Lee wrote on the group's online message board. "He said that he just can't go through with another huge tour right now, and wants to stay a little closer to his family instead."

Lee added that Evanescence "love Will very much" and that they collectively wish him "nothing but happiness in everything he does. We've been playing music together since I was in junior high. I miss him already."

Lee made sure to note that Boyd's departure won't hinder the release of the band's latest album, The Open Door, which is due out on October 3. Evanescence will look for a replacement for Boyd, but Lee is optimistic that the search won't get in the way of the band's tour plans.

Boyd's departure is the second fissure the band has suffered in recent years. In 2003, lead guitarist and principal songwriter Ben Moody left suddenly and unapologetically.

Moody was replaced by former Cold guitarist Terry Balsamo, who almost departed permanently last year when he suffered a stroke caused by a torn neck artery.

Lee split with manager Dennis Rider last year, and the two sides have sued each other in a dispute that seems particularly nasty.