left to right: Humpty, Dumpty... just kidding, Spencer, Ryan, Brendon and Jon.

Panic at the Disco, who, I won’t lie, were one of my personal favourite bands (next to the Cure and the Smiths, obviously, because I was a totally col emo kid) when I was in that awkward emo stage, have announced that two members will be leaving to pursue another project due to “creative differences” (it’s always that pesky little thing, isn’t it?).

Ryan Ross, lyricist and lead guitarist, and Jon Walker, bass guitarist, have announced they are to go their own way. It is expected that vocalist/guitarist Brendon Urie and drummer Spencer Smith will replace the members and continue their scheduled tour with Blink 182 in the States next month.

The official message reads:

“Though the four of us have made music together in the past, we’ve creatively evolved in different directions which has compromised what each of us want to personally achieve… Over the years, we have remained close and honest with each other, which helped us to realize that our goals were different and that parting ways is truly what is best for each of us. We are all excited for the future, you should be too.”

Brendon and Spencer later posted this:

“We just wanted to let you know, that the news of Ryan and Jon leaving the band is unfortunately true. It’s been an amazing journey being in a band with them, but sometimes individual tastes take friends in different directions and you can’t ignore it. They are some of the most talented guys we know, and we’re sure that whatever they do next will be great. That said, Panic At The Disco is alive and very very well. We are working on new songs that we are excited for you to hear. Our dates
with Blink and Fall Out Boy start in a little less than a month, and we wouldn’t miss those for the world. We know everybody has a lot of questions at this point with everything being so out of the blue, most of those should be answered in the coming weeks. We appreciate every one of you, and hope you continue with us on this incredible ride.

Pay attention we have a surprise in store for you.

-Brendon and Spencer”

NME reports that Ryan Ross is working on solo material in LA. A further announcement is expected from both parties shortly.

(Here’s our gossipy two cents: Ross always said he wanted to do more vocal work but it was clear that Urie was a much stronger presence, Ross also frequently gushed about certain literary and music geniuses but his own music never really reflected those he said he admired the most. Perhaps after Walker joined the band a couple of years ago Ross found that he and the bass guitarist had more in common with where they wanted their sound to go – presumably others did not agree – et voila, they slowly got up and made their exit… – JUST A THEORY, NOT FACT. But probable.)