Photo: WENN.com

Christopher Owens, the lead singer of US band Girls, has quit the band with immediate effect.

The shock news will surprise many fans, including those lucky enough to see the group perfoming in the UK just two months ago.

A statement posted on the website of Girls' record label Turnstile today (July 2) reads:

"Dear all,

This may come as a surprise to many & has been an issue of much thought for me. My decision was not easy to make.

I am leaving Girls. My reasons at this time are personal. I need to do this in order to progress.

I will continue to write & record music. More will be announced soon. I thank you all for everything.

Sincerely–Christopher"

The same statement was Tweeted by Owens through his personal Twitter account too. It is not yet known what the future holds for Girls, who comprised of Owens on vocals and his songwriting partner Chet 'JR' White.

Girls released two albums and one EP during their short career and were best known for songs such as 'Lust For Life', 'Vomit' and Hellhole Ratrace'.

Below: more splits and break-ups of 2012