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The band's management confirmed yesterday that bassist Nick Olivieri had left the group, stating only: "A number of incidents over the last 18 months have led to the decision that the two [that'll be Josh Homme too] can no longer maintain a working partnership."
It's thought that Homme will continue to work under the QOTSA name, with Screaming Trees bassist Van Conner stepping into the void left by Olivieri. Barrett Martin, also once of Screaming Trees, becomes the band's new drummer, replacing the departed Joey Castillo.
Speculation as to what led to Olivieri's departure is rife. It is thought that something big happened between the two on the Big Day Out tour in Australia last month. No confirmation on that as yet though.
