Danish pop superstars Aqua have split until further notice, the group announced yesterday (Aug. 14). A third album was due to be released late this year or early in 2002, but the Universal Denmark says it will likely not be completed. "We have looked each other straight in the eye and reached the conclusion that, for the moment, the spark is missing," the band said in a statement.

Universal Denmark managing director Jens-Otto Paludan emphasizes that the split was mutual and leaves open the possibility that the band will get back together.

Aqua recently played outdoor festivals in Scandinavia, performing material that was meant for the third album. Band members Rene Dif and Lene Nystrom have been making progress with solo projects recorded mainly at the quartet's studio in London. Songwriters Claus Noreen and Soren Rasted will continue to work together and on their own.

Aqua has sold more than 28 million albums and singles worldwide, according to Universal Denmark. The group's 1997 album "Aquarium," released by MCA in North America, peaked at No. 7 on The Billboard 200 and featured the single "Barbie Girl," which became the highest new entry for a debut act on The Billboard Hot 100 when it opened at No. 7. Last year's "Aquarius" topped out at No. 82 on The Billboard 200.