Franz Ferdinand Guitarist Nick McCarthy Stepping Away from the Band

Franz Ferdinand guitarist Nick McCarthy is leaving the Scottish rock band. Today, the band announced McCarthy’s departure on Twitter, writing that he would “not be taking part in the recording or touring of the next Franz Ferdinand album.”

The guitarist left to spend more time with his family and to explore other musical interests.

“When we record or tour, it takes a long, full-time commitment lasting a minimum of a year and a half, most of which is spent away from home,” reads the announcement. “Nick has a young family and does not want to be away from them for such a long period.”