VON BONDIES - VON BONDIES BASSIST QUITS

THE VON BONDIES bassist CARRIE SMITH has quit the Detroit rock band after performing her final gig in London last night (31AUG04).

The C'MON C'MON star strummed at Tuesday's concert at the Astoria venue to mark her final musical venture with bandmates JASON STOLLSTEIMER, MARCIE BOLAN and DOM BLUM.

Smith says, "I have spent countless hours and many emotions thinking about this decision, but ultimately, it is the right decision for me.

"There are so many reasons why I am leaving - some are personal, some are professional, some emotional, some logical - but in the end, I know this is the right thing to do.

"I wish the other VBs much success in the future and I know that they will continue to write and perform to the utmost of their abilities. Rest assured, the Von Bondies will carry on with a new bass player. Please embrace her with all the kindness you have shown me."

YASMEEN SMITH has stepped in to replace Smith.