"To our Fans and Friends: As R.E.M., and as lifelong friends and co-conspirators, we have decided to call it a day as a band. We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished. To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening." R.E.M.
So. Sobbing at my desk right now would probably not be a good thing, yeah? I just... fuck. Fucking hell.
Statements from each band member over at NPR, since the band's site seems to be a little overwhelmed at the moment.