Cinematic masterpiece The Dark Knight brought forth the concept that “You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.” The same can be said when it comes to world of indie rock. Pinback’s Rob Crow knows this and that is why he’s quitting music while he’s ahead.

Stereogum released an article detailing his statement via social media.

On March 9, Crow announced via his Twitter account that he was quitting music. While critically acclaimed and harboring a cult following, his musical endeavors aren’t paying the bills. A father and husband, Crow affirms in a Facebook post that he is quitting for financial reasons and that there is no extenuating circumstances but rather, he is attempting to concentrate on providing for his family.

He elaborates:

I’m fine.
I have just come to the realization that making music in this climate is financially irresponsible to my family and ultimately humiliating to my psyche.
Im going to finish and release the work I’ve already spent my heart and tears on, but even that is likely to ruin me.
My kids are growing and my downstairs studio would probably be put to better use as a bedroom.
I’ll keep a small setup with which I can use for scoring, editing and things when they come up.
Also quitting Facebook and Twitter and using that energy to concentrate on writing in my journal.
Chucking the booze as well will help with that.
I just trying to make a mature decision and be a responsible husband and father.

In the grand scheme of things, Crow stands as the latest casualty of the waning music economy. Crow is a stalwart of math rock, a multi-instrumentalist with an ear for intricate rhythms and nonchalant whisper cracking vocals that have become synonymous with the sound of indie rock over the last decade and a half. One of the brightest and most gifted artists of our generation, the music business hasn’t provided enough for him to sustain the financial equity to take care of his family. It’s hard to blame the guy to leave the industry at the peak of his musical prowess, but, fortunately for us he will be releasing the rest of his records before he “gives up.”

In a career spanning five Pinback albums, six solo releases and collaborating with all star band Team Sleep, Crow has already left a legacy that has cemented him as one of the premiere and groundbreaking artists of our generation.