Will Butler has confirmed he's left Arcade Fire: "I’ve changed—and the band has changed—over the last almost 20 years"

Will Butler has confirmed he's left Arcade Fire.

Fans had noticed Will had not appeared at recent surprise shows from the band, and didn't appear in new promo photos shared alongside the announcement of the band's new album 'WE'.

Writing on Twitter, he explains: "Hi friends - I've left Arcade Fire."

"I left at the end of last year, after the new record was complete. There was no acute reason beyond that I’ve changed—and the band has changed—over the last almost 20 years. Time for new things.

"I’m working on a new record; booking some shows this summer. I’m working on music for a David Adjmi play (which is so good). A few other projects percolating.

"I was at Paul Farmer’s memorial service last weekend. The words from the ceremony, and the challenge of his life, remain at the front of my mind.

"I’ll still be working with @plus1org and @pih—and the many activists and good humans and elected officials I’ve met—to give people material help; to build better systems of health, justice, and government; to try to live up in some way to Paul’s example.