Leftfield pull the plug

Leftfield: Mercury Music Prize nomination in 2000

Dance duo Leftfield are splitting up after 12 years together, it has been announced.

Paul Daley and Neil Barnes are planning to work on solo projects.

In a statement, they said: "After 12 years of sonic experimentation, we have decided to pull the plug on Leftfield.

"Fans should not be downhearted. This should be seen as a new beginning in an ongoing process."

Plaster

Leftfield was formed in 1990 and much of the duo's early career centred around remixing.

They released two critically-acclaimed albums, Leftism in 1995 and Rhythm And Stealth in 2000, and were nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 2000.

The duo were also well known for producing and remixing artists from David Bowie to the Lighthouse Family. In 1993 they joined forces with former Sex Pistol John Lydon on Open Up, which was a Top 10 hit.

Their live show were famous for the sound system and they are still officially the loudest band ever to play Brixton Academy.

'Proud'

On their 1999 UK tour, health and safety officials told them to turn the sound down as plaster was falling from the venue's ceiling.

Announcing the split, Daley said: "Thanks to everyone from fans to promoters to DJ's and to listeners who have supported us over the years. This is not the end."

Barnes said: "Leftfield was always about pushing the boundaries of sound as far as we could. I'm proud to be a part of this.

"Thanks to all the people we have worked with over the years and to everyone that promoted and bought our records. The end is just the beginning."