Vocalist Henriette Bordvik has announced her departure from SIRENIA, the Norwegian gothic metal band featuring former TRISTANIA guitarist/vocalist Morten Veland. Her official statement on the matter reads as follows:

"It's a difficult call this one, but it has now come down to me leaving SIRENIA. Seeing how the band is working full-time on the new album — the new record deal and everything — there's a lot coming up, and as I'm not able to give SIRENIA all the attention they need and sure as hell [are] worthy of at this very moment, we have come to the decision that it is for the best of the future of the band that we part ways. No hard feelings whatsoever, just due to a bit of musical differences and such. I don't think SIRENIA is what really gives me the right spirit to keep going and give it all for the band. I wish them the best of luck in the future and on the next relese(es), and would like to salute you all for your massive support!!"

The rest of the band issued the following statement regarding Henriette's departure from the group:

"We in the orchestra would like to thank Henriette for the memorable years together, the accomplishments and all the great moments. We wish you all the best for the future. Set your sails, lil sister. Rock on!!!"

SIRENIA earlier in the year signed a new record deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The band have released two successful albums to date (2002's "At Sixes and Sevens" and 2004's "An Elixir for Existence") and late last year toured Europe with TIAMAT, PAIN and THEATRE OF TRAGEDY.