Battles member Tyondai Braxton has left the group, it's been announced.

Braxton played keyboard, guitar and sang many of the vocals in the experimental rock band.

In a statement, Battles remaining members described his departure as “a sad but amicable split”.

They suggested that Braxton's own commitments as a solo artist and desire not to tour was behind the decision.

Battles are currently putting the finishing touches to the follow-up to their 2007 full-length debut 'Mirrored'.

They are set to premiere material from their forthcoming album at two special gigs in New York and London in October.

The band are also expected to announce details of a 2011 tour.

(by Jason Gregory)