Razorlight's drummer quits band

Burrows (second from right) has co-written many of the band's songs

Razorlight drummer Andy Burrows has announced that he is quitting the band to "pursue other musical ventures".

In a statement on the band's website, he called the past five years an "amazing experience" but has decided to leave the band "for personal reasons".

Burrows joined the band in 2004 after the departure of original drummer Christian Smith-Pancorvo.

Burrows, who recently recorded a charity solo album, wrote the band's biggest hit single, America.

He failed to play at a Razorlight gig in Wolverhampton on 2 March and was replaced by David Sullivan-Kaplan.

'Integral part'

Frontman Johnny Borrell said he would "miss" the drummer, but is adamant the band will continue recording without him.

"Over the last two albums and five years, Andy has been an integral part of Razorlight and we will miss him," he said.

"From the day he walked into our rehearsal studio it was obvious that he was an amazing drummer and he's contributed on many levels beyond that.

"He's been a great player and a great friend and I think we'll both always be proud of the music we've made together," added Borrell.

Sullivan-Kaplan will continue to drum for Razorlight, who are currently touring the US until the end of the year.

The band are on the line-up for several summer festivals including the Isle of Wight and T in the Park.