Sheffield quintet Monkey Swallows the Universe have announced their decision to go on indefinite hiatus.

The band posted this by way of explanation on their website:

“We have come to the decision to put Monkey Swallows the Universe on indefinite hiatus after we have finished our current run of gigs. What does this mean in practice? The answer is we don't know yet. We could be away for months, years, or it could be forever.

“We can't thank you enough for your support over the past few years. We wouldn't have got this far without you. We promise to keep you up to date with any future plans.

“Bearing that in mind, you will probably have already realised that your last opportunity to see us live (for a while, at least) will be quickly approaching. Details of our next few shows are listed below.

“In other news, you may be interested to know that Nat has embarked on a solo project, and has just played her first solo gig, with a few more in the pipeline. Find out more about this new venture here: MySpace.com/judybeat.

“Make sure you have a great Christmas, and we hope to see some of you at the last few gigs.

“Nat, Kev, Rob, Andy, Cate xxxxx”

Those dates, as promised by the band, run out thus:

December
15 Farndale The Band Room
20 Sheffield University

January
11 London Bush Hall
18 Sheffield The Boardwalk

February
9 Glasgow The Flying Duck
10 Aberdeen The Tunnels
11 Edinburgh Cabaret Voltaire

Read Rob Webb’s recent feature on Sheffield label Thee SPC, who have worked with the act in the past, here.