Arctic Monkeys' Bassist Quits Band

Bass player Andy Nicholson has officially left the chart-topping British indie band The Arctic Monkeys. He had recently left the North American Tour with We Are Scientists last month, due to "fatigue following an intensive period of touring." Details to why he has completely left the band are unclear.

Reuters reports that Nick O'Malley, the bassist who has filled in for Nicholson during the current tour, will carry on for the remainder of the shows this summer.

The official web site announced the news and spoke agreeably of Nicholson. "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."

Their debut album, "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not," first made waves when the band was touring England, but they have seen a swell in fans since the album was released on iTunes in January. Among the many accolades this new hit band has received are Best British Band at the NME music awards and also the record for the fastest-selling first album in the UK.