The project was supposed to be a closely guarded secret. But Denise Jonas, who seems to have a penchant for revealing secrets and intimate details about her three famous sons, spoiled the surprise during an interview with Parade.com.

“Nick is working on a solo act – it’s called Nick Jonas & The Administration,” Jonas told the site. “Shhh! He’s at the photo shoot for the album cover right now.”

Way to keep a lid on things Mrs. Jonas. Reminds me of that old joke about the fastest forms of communication: telephone, telegraph and tell-a-mom.

Of course, for devoted fans of any band a solo project by one of its members means opens up the door to speculation about the future of the group. As soon as the existence of Nick’s album was confirmed, Jonas Brothers fans began lighting up the blogosphere with rumors of the band’s imminent demise.

The Jonas sibs moved quickly to quash the rumors, taking to their website to post a message denying that the group was in any danger of dissolution.

In the post, subtly titled “We Are Not Breaking Up,” the brothers reveal more details about the side project and reassure fans that they plan on having a long career together.

Nick Jonas explained the album was recorded in Nashville about six months ago, while the trio had a two-week break in their touring schedule, and said that solo projects were always part of the master plan.

“We’ve said from the beginning of our career as the Jonas Brothers that anything we do outside of the group is a side project because you can’t break up brothers,” Nick said. “My brothers are my biggest supporters, and were on the phone with me every day while I was in the studio asking how it was going, and telling me they couldn’t wait to hear the record.

“My brothers and I couldn’t be more excited to have these amazing opportunities as a group, and as individuals. We are already planning another world tour AS THE JONAS BROTHERS next summer, and it is all thanks to our amazing fans.”

Brothers Joe and Kevin also weighed in, saying, “We are so proud of our brother Nick. We know that we will be doing music together for the rest of our lives. But we are thrilled for you to hear these songs that were on his heart. They are amazing works of art from an amazing talent … our brother. We will see you later this year, next year, and hopefully for the rest of our lives.

“’A three chord strand is not easily broken,’ and one thing’s for sure … this three chord strand is stronger now than it’s ever been.”

While no solid date has been set, Nick Jonas & The Administration is due to be released early next year.

Read the Jonas Brothers’ complete message here.