Akercocke's bassist Peter Theobalds has announced his surprise departure from the band on January 18. This sudden news comes just as founding members Jason Mendonca and David Gray celebrate the band's tenth anniversary this year.

Peter has said of his departure:
"It's been possibly the most difficult decision in my life to make but after 10 years of the beast that Akercocke has become, it's time to hit the highway in search of new adventures. My reasons are many and varied but the principal factor has been that the original vibe that drove me to play has gone, the fun, the utter immersion of the music and friendship and the camaraderie has been slowly eroding for me personally over the last year or so.
It's given me so many unforgettable moments and brought me into contact with some amazing human beings and situations and I shall sincerely miss all of those aspects. But my heart tells me its time to seek other ideals and situation. I will NOT be giving up music however and will continue to bash out some form of pseudo metallic noise, until chronic rheumatoid arthritis turns my hands into claws or Alzheimer's finally puts paid to what little common sense I currently possess.

Massive massive respect to all those people that have been so unbelievably supportive and encouraging: - my family, the fans, the crews, the bands and other random maniacs that have been there for me all the way. I'd love to do a thank you list but it would just be so long and I'd inevitably forget someone and get branded a total cunt (again), so I'll just say that I raise a glass to all of your honour!
See you in the pit dear friends.

Respect
P."

Meanwhile, Akercocke continue and are pleased to announce Peter Benjamin (Concept, Corpsing, Pantheist) as their new bass player, as the band commence work on their fifth studio album at Goat of Mendes Studios London. The as yet untitled new album is slated for a May 14 2007 release on Earache Records.

Source:	akercocke.com
Band profile:	Akercocke