Hold Steady Keyboardist Franz Nicolay Quits Band

In sad news for Hold Steady fans, keyboardist Franz Nicolay has left the band. As Pitchfork reports, the surprise announcement comes via Nicolay's official website, though he originally informed the group of his decision months ago.

"You should know: I've left The Hold Steady," Nicolay wrote. "I told the band I'd be leaving in early September, played my last show with them in Minneapolis around Thanksgiving and dotted the t's and crossed the i's this week. Five years seemed like a nice round number. Thanks to everyone who was a part of the experience, especially the Unified Scene, who are nice folks. I'll see you all soon in any case."

Nicolay, who originally joined the band before its second album, 'Separation Sunday,' has been involved in a number of other projects. In January 2009, he released his first solo album, 'Major General,' and he's also collaborated with World/Inferno Friendship Society, Star F---ing Hipsters, the Dresden Dolls and the Living End. Never one to rest easy, the mustachioed fan-favorite has another solo EP, 'St. Sebastian of the Short Stage,' a record with New York band Guignol and a story collection, 'Complicated Gardening Techniques,' coming soon.

The Hold Steady are currently working on material for their fifth album. No plans to replace Nicolay have been announced.