After rabid speculation by the British press, the remaining members of the Stone Roses officially called it quits. A signed statement by frontman Ian Brown read: "Having spent the last ten years in the filthiest business in the universe, it's a pleasure to announce the end of the Stone Roses. May God bless all who gave us their love and supported us throughout this time, special thanks to the people of Manchester who sent us on our way. Peace be upon you."

Bassist Mani, the other remaining member, confirmed reports that he will join Primal Scream. John Squire, the band's guitarist and creative force, left in April and has formed a new band Seahorses, which will begin recording their debut album early next year. Original drummer Reni left the band in 1995.

Brown and Mani had tried to continue with replacement players but played a horrible headlining set at the Reading Festival in August. Brown appeared to be visibly intoxicated onstage and had trouble with his vocals. Reaction in the British media was scathing.

The Stone Roses spearheaded the explosion of England's trippy "Manchester" scene in 1989 with their self-titled debut. The album is arguably one of the finest moments in British music history, but the career of the band subsequently nosedived.

After more than four years of legal wrangling with Silvertone Records, their record company at the time, and long delays in recording, the Roses released their follow-up "Second Coming" on Geffen Records i