THE VINES - THE VINES STAR AUTISTIC

THE VINES frontman CRAIG NICHOLS has been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. The GET FREE hitmaker was prompted to visit a psychologist after a series of erratic live performances, but is convinced he has suffered from mild autism ever since childhood. He says, "I think it's a mild case that I have. I remember when I was 15, I spoke to a couple of psychologists. But I don't think they diagnosed me with anything. "Maybe it grew. Maybe it became more intense when I started in the band. But I'm not really sure." Nichols is determined to continue with his music career, but admits he wants to scale down the group's live performances. He adds, "I feel comfortable writing songs. It's a good outlet for me. Seeing as though I'm not that social, it's a way to communicate."