Scottish rock troupe the Beta Band will split at the end of the year, following a U.K. fall tour in support of its newest release, May's Heroes to Zeroes.

"Sadly, eight years of hard work and critical acclaim but little return in terms of commercial success inevitably takes its toll," an announcement on the band's Web site reads, "and a group decision was made to finally lay the band to rest."

Frontman Steve Mason and bassist Richard Greentree plan to continue work on solo material, including Mason's King Biscuit Time side project, while DJ John Maclean and drummer Robin Jones will divide their time between film and music.

"The Beta Band apple has over-ripened and become riddled with maggots," Greentree said. "It must fall from the tree and let its seeds return to the ground. Sincere thanks to everyone who has helped us along the way."

The band will play some summer festival shows, beginning August 13th at La Route du Rock in France, before embarking on the autumn farewell tour. Parlophone Records plans to release a Beta Band DVD, featuring music videos and various film footage shot by the quartet, in 2005.

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