In what has become something of a trend this Friday (see hookah story below), Particle has announced that guitarist Charlie Hitchcock is no longer be a member of the group. Hitchcock was the second guitar player to perform with the band, joining in early 2001 after founding guitarist Dave Simmons passed away in December 2000. In a statement on the groups website the band explains, We’re very thankful for the tremendous spirit and talent that Charlie has brought to the Particle world. Our musical journey together has been amazing, and we will all look back on the experiences we’ve shared as some of the best of our lives. Simply put, we found ourselves moving in different directions musically and we felt it was necessary for everyone involved to make this change. It is unclear at present whether the group will reconfigure itself as a trio or will bring in any additional members. Beyond that the band explains that it is looking forward to using this time off the road to rejuvenate, regenerate and enter the new year with a passionate return.