Nick's percussive expertise was a crucial aspect to the band's unique sound, both in the studio and live.

After four full-length studio albums, one ep and two dvds plus a compilation and expansive world tours, Nick has decided to quit the group and pursue new challenges.

It turns out the show at Reading Festival in August was Nick's last as a member of Kaiser Chiefs. Nick states:

"I can confirm I have left Kaiser Chiefs after fifteen spectacular years. I'm moving on. (...) After having achieved such amazing things thanks to the support and loyalty of our fans, I have decided to leave and turn my attention to other areas within the world of music and to pursue new challenges. It has not been an easy decision and one that the boys and I have discussed throughout this year. The band have been incredibly supportive of my decision. I wish them all continued success."

Lead singer of the Leeds band Ricky Wilson responds by saying:

"The door is on the latch and the key is under the mat... We’ve all had a while to get used to it - we've got a bunch of shows next year and things are sounding great in the studio."

Although the band will be without Nick for their up and coming February 2013 UK tour dates, as well as their forthcoming album, they plan to continue and everything will still be going ahead.

Kaiser Chiefs are yet to reveal any news about Nick's replacement.