In a statement to NME.COM the London four-piece – Alan Donohoe, Matthew Swinnerton, Jamie Hornsmith and Lasse Petersen – announced the immediate break-up of the band.

Both their October UK tour, which was due to kick off at Leeds Cockpit on October 26, and American dates have also been cancelled. Full refunds will be given to ticket holders.

A statement from the band explained that their hearts just weren't in it any more. "The Rakes have always been very adamant and proud of the fact that we give 100 per cent to every gig we've ever played," the statement read.

"If we can't give it everything then we won't do it. That was the rule we set ourselves from day one. After much deliberation we have come to the shared conclusion that we can't give it 100 per cent any more and regret to announce that The Rakes are calling it a day."

The band apologised to their fans for cancelling their UK and US tours.

"Writing your own obituary is a surreal thing to do," they said in the statement. "But we want to give particular thanks to our much-loved fans, all the great people we've worked with over the years, our management and loyal record label.

"We feel privileged to have had the opportunity to write music together and perform around the world. Genuinely, thanks for the good times... that was one hell of a party! But now, we really must get some sleep."

The band formed in 2004 and released three albums – 'Capture/Release' in 2005, followed by 'Ten New Messages' in 2007 and 'Klang' earlier this year.