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Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson has spoke openly about the hurt and misunderstanding that surrounded the departure of drummer Nick Hodgson.
Back in 2012, Hodgson announced the news on Twitter, then posted on his blog with a slightly more detailed message.
He wrote: "After 15 years with the band and having achieved such amazing things thanks to the support and loyalty of our fans, I have decided to leave and turn my attention to other areas within the world of music and to pursue new challenges.It has not been an easy decision and one that the boys and I have discussed throughout this year. The band have been incredibly supportive of my decision. I wish them all continued success."
Now, in a new interview with The Guardian, Wilson says that "both far happier now" but they're a long way from being friends again after Hodgson claimed in a radio interview he had written 100% of Kaiser Chiefs music.
"They all started with him, but big parts of the songs were by us," said Wilson. Opening up about Hodgson's departure, Wilson continued: "He said he was finishing the band. Not leaving, finishing. 'The band's over.' And at first we all just went along with it."
When aksed if continuing without Hodgson would be easy as he was not 'a focal point' of the band, Wilson laughed: "I'm not sure he sees it like that! Did you see how high his drum riser used to be? Our roadies used to call us Riser Chiefs."
Listen to recent single 'Misery Company' below:
The frontman added that Hodgson's departure only brought the band closer together and improved their focus in the writing of their new album, Education, Education & War.
"And, to be honest, I was more angry at myself for having not pulled my weight, for getting lazy," saidWilson. "Somewhere along the way we lost that anger. So basically, he did me a massive favour."
Kaiser Chiefs will release new album Education, Education & War on 31 March, 2014.
But before that, the band will play a couple of intimate UK shows:
February 11 2014 - Manchester Gorilla
February 13 2014 - London Scala
Tickets are on sale now. For more information visit Gigwise gig tickets.
Below: Photos of Kaiser Chiefs live at London's Apollo
