I got an email from James Ash (pictured, second from left) from the Rogue Traders today with a link to an official Rogue Announcement over on the bands online forum. Here’s what he had to say…

Firstly, we all just wanted to extend an enormous thank you to everyone for coming out in droves around the country and supporting our Better In The Dark tour. It really was very humbling for us to arrive in places we’ve never played before, then peak out from behind the curtain and see full-houses waiting for us. It was a supreme effort on the part of our fans – and definitely something we will always remember…

…These last twelve months have been incredibly jam-packed – a new album going platinum, three singles, constant travel and then capping it all off with a national tour. And with that, our thoughts now turn to the future.

As I’m sure every single one of you already knows, this tour was always expected to be our last tour for some time, as we knew Nat was going to work on solo and other commitments, which could take some years to complete.

Because of this, sadly, after a great deal of consideration we’ve come to the conclusion that as Nat’s career choices are taking her in new and exciting directions, she won’t be able to be a part of the Rogue Traders.

We know this news will be deeply disappointing to many of you. I’m sure you can appreciate it was an extremely difficult conclusion to reach. It’s hard to express in a few sentences the feelings that come with such a decision.

Above all, Nat and I both want you to know that we part company as best friends, with a deep love and respect for each other and what we have achieved over the last three and a half years.

But this is far from the end for the Rogue’s.

Rogue Traders has always been a project in transition: Beginning as a DJ duo - transforming into an international pop act. With Phase 2 coming to a close, Phase 3 of Rogue Traders is about to begin, and [you] most literally won’t see it coming…

But no matter what happens in the future, nothing can diminish the bond we have forged bringing our music to the world. We stand extremely proud. Above all, we’d like to thank you for accepting us and our music – it’s been our unique honour.

Love James.

Sad, sad news. I don’t know what to say, except that I wish Nat all the best in her solo efforts (so long as the material sounds nothing like that fucking cover of “Don’t Give Up” or, god forbid, she releases an album full of ballads,) and to James, Mel, Danny and Cam as they continue on as the Rogue Traders.

I’ve been a long-time fan and supporter/defender of James Ash and his musical stylings. From his days as my 2nd favourite Hitz FM DJ, to the productions of Faith In Technology, Thunderchild, Union State and Rogue Traders pre-Natalie and Rogue Traders with Natalie, James has always crafted fine material; music that makes you move and, more importantly, gives you that excitable feeling in your tummy when you hear it. Whatever direction the Rogue’s go in now without Natalie, I — as I’m sure many others are too — am behind them 100%. It’s going to be strange, but If anyone can pull it off, it’s those guys.

Here’s to the future for both artists. Who knows what James & co have got planned? Will they find a female replacement? That would certainly be interesting.

Just in case the Rogue Traders are stuck as to who, should they even decide to, they’ll be replacing Natalie with, I’ve thrown together a list.

* Rachel Stevens = Not exactly doing anything, might have trouble singing live though.

* Jamelia = Not exactly doing anything, might have trouble avoiding hernia’s should Simon Amstell be in the audience.

* Siobhan Donaghy = Not exactly doing anything, might have trouble coming down off that cloud in the sky though.

* Kylie Minogue = Not exactly selling anything, might as well give this a whirl. I would have said Dannii, what with her being my Minogue of choice, but she’s $ucce$$ful in her profession these days; move over Judy - Dannii is now the worlds greatest and most loved professional Judge!

* Gina Riley = Not exactly busy now that Kath & Kim is on hiatus; bitch can sing!

* Amiel = Not exactly busy now, nor has she been busy since Joshabrahams-gate.

* Jo O’Meara = Just kidding LULZLAWLZCAT! ROFLCOPTER.

Thoughts? There’s also the possibility it could be a male singing or multiple vocalists, like ‘back in the day.’ What about that Maree chick from Union State’s “The One”? She might be fun (if she’s still with us?)