Oasis' rhythm guitarist Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs quit the British band after eight years in order to "concentrate on other things in my life."

In a statement posted at the band's official Web site (at www.oasisinet.com), Bonehead wrote, "After a lot of consideration I have decided to call it a day with Oasis. I've had a fantastic 8 years in one of the best bands ever to come out of Britain, and now feel I have come to the stage where I'd like to concentrate on other things in my life, outside of the demands of being in a successful rock and roll band."

Arthurs went on to write, "I've made some great friends along the way and wish everyone in the band every success with the next album, and intend to enjoy watching the band go on to further success in the coming years. I would like to thank the band and everyone around it, especially the fans, for making it so special."

The guitarist took leave after completing his work on the forthcoming, as-yet-untitled Oasis album, for which Arthurs spent nine weeks in the studio. Recorded in both the south of France and in London with Noel Gallagher co-producing, the LP is close to completion and is expected to drop in February.

No plans have been made to replace Arthurs.