Pixies Fire Kim Shattuck

Kim Shattuck has been fired from the Pixies, according to a tweet the bummed bassist fired off last night. Shattuck -- previously best known as frontwoman for SoCal pop-punk mainstays the Muffs -- had joined the band earlier this year to replace founder Kim Deal, who announced her departure just before the alt-rock heroes surprised fans in June with 'Bag Boy,' their first new music in a decade.

"Disappointed to learn that my time w/Pixies ended today," Shattuck tweeted. "Amazing experience.Focusing attn on Muffs & new album. All the best to everyone."

As the NME points out, Shattuck was notably absent in group interviews, and while lead singer Frank Black and guitarist Joey Santiago had both praised Deal's fill-in, noting the enthusiasm she'd brought to recent live shows, her silence may have been indicative of friction within the band.

The remaining Pixies have yet to comment on Shattuck's apparent dismissal or reveal who will handle bass duties when they hit the road in January with Best Coast, Cults and FIDLAR on an extensive North American tour. Spunky punk bassists named Kim might want to start updating their resumes.