After 15 years as frontman for Canadian rock trio The Tea Party, Jeff Martin has decided to pack it in.

Martin has announced his departure from the band to pursue a solo career, according to a press statement.

The news came as a surprise to bassist Stuart Chatwood, who, in an email to JAM!, stated that he "wasn't aware that the band had broken up."

Despite the decision, Martin left the door open for a possible return to the T.O.-based band.

"I am deeply appreciative of all the support Tea Party fans have shown both the band and me over the years," Martin said. "While I'm not ruling out a return of The Tea Party at some time in the future, I am focused for now on my acoustic solo record, and hope to release the new music this winter and tour in support of it."

"I am excited to embark on this new musical chapter of my life and wish all the best to my two former bandmates and friends, Jeff Burrows and Stuart Chatwood."

Formed in Windsor, Ontario in 1990, Martin, Chatwood and drummer Jeff Burrows are best known for their eastern-influenced rock songs, which include "Sister Awake" and "Heaven Coming Down."

The Juno-nominated band's final studio album, "Seven Circles," was released in August of 2004.