Members of the Black Crowes are in the midst of a game of musical chairs, and have no time to get every one in the right seat.

Just 10 days after the band fired longtime keyboardist Eddie Hawrysch, the Crowes learned from the attorney of guitarist Marc Ford that he was leaving the band as well. The Crowes kick off the next leg of their US tour tonight in Richmond, Virginia.

Marc Ford

According to an online post from the band's manager, Pete Angelus, Ford's attorney notified the band by fax that he was leaving. Angelus also stated that Ford's contract with the band stipulated that he give three months' notice if he decided to terminate the agreement.

"I am not going to comment on the timing of this notification or the way Marc has elected to handle his personal and business affairs with the Black Crowes, however I will state as a matter of fact, that this is not the first time that Marc Ford has breached his agreement with the Black Crowes," Angelus said.

Ford, who left the band in 1997 citing health concerns, did so again this time. In a statement released by his publicist, Ford said he left the Crowes due to concerns that his health "and all the difficult work he has done to gain his longest period of sobriety ever was in jeopardy while touring." Ford had rejoined the Crowes in the spring of 2005 after an eight-year absence. Guitarist Paul Stacey will play with the Crowes on the fall run but according to Angelus, "discussions with other guitarists" are also under way.

But Crowes principals Chris and Rich Robinson aren't letting the turmoil get the best of them, as they are working on the first new Crowes album since 2001's Lions. The as-yet-untitled set is due next year on an undetermined label. Several cuts have been unveiled live in the past year, including "Magic Rooster Blues," "Cold Boy Smile," "Late Nights Again," and "Cut From the Shadow."