Barenaked Ladies [ tickets ] vocalist Steven Page, who last summer was arrested for cocaine possession, is leaving the group to pursue a solo career.

"By mutual agreement, Steven Page will be parting company with the remaining members of Barenaked Ladies," reads a message posted at the band's website. "Jim Creeggan, Kevin Hearn, Ed Robertson, and Tyler Stewart will continue recording and touring together as Barenaked Ladies. Steven Page will pursue solo projects including theatrical opportunities while the band enters the studio in April 2009, and hits the road in the fall."

"These guys are my brothers," Page said in the message. "We've grown up together over the past twenty years. I love them and wish them all the best in the future."

Group member Ed Robertson, also via the website message, said: "It's the start of a new chapter for all of us. Here's to the future!"

Page's arrest last June came just a few weeks after BNL release its first children's album, "Snack Time."