Drummer Ross Dawson, best known for his work with English dance-punk band Late of the Pier, has died following a “very sudden and tragic accident” on Friday May 15th, 2015.
NME and The Guardian report that Late of the Pier’s former record label, Parlophone, confirmed Dawson’s passing.
Dawson’s family issued the following statement, through the label, about his passing, according to thelineofbestfit.com.
The family’s statement reads:
“Our beloved Ross was involved in a very sudden and tragic accident on Friday night. Ross was the drummer in Late Of The Pier who formed in 2005. As well as writing and playing his own material Ross was a drummer with many other successful artists including Misty Miller, Kai Fish and most recently Zibra. Ross was a monumental force in the lives of everybody who knew him, multi-talented, modest, kind and generous; he loved and was loved by his family. The world has become a sadder place without him. He will be eternally missed by all who knew and loved him.”
In a statement, Warner Bros. Records and Parlophone chairman Miles Leonard added his own memories about the band, Late of the Pier, and Dawson.
He said:
“Late of the Pier were one of the most original, innovative and exciting artists I’ve ever worked with. Ahead of their time but with such a youthful outlook in both music and life. Although our time working together was relatively short, I shall remember Ross with great fondness and as a bright, personable and warm character. Sadly we have all lost a talented musician but his music will be with us forever. Our sincere condolences go to his friends and family.”
Late of the Pier formed in 2005, and released their debut album, Fantasy Black Channel, in 2008, according to NME. In 2010, the band announced they were breaking up. As noted above, Dawson went on to have a successful career working with other artists, and his Late of the Pier band mate, Sam Dust, also went on to have a solo career under the stage name, La Priest.