The music world was saddened of the loss of All That Remains guitarist Oli Herbert who was found dead on October 16, 2018. While friends, family and fans grieve the death of Herbert, there are still many questions surrounding his death. The state medical examiner’s office ruled that Herbert, 44, drowned, and called the manner of death “undetermined.” The manner of death is typically listed as homicide, suicide or accident, but state Chief Medical Examiner Dr. James Gill said Herbert’s case will remain undetermined unless new information is developed.
In addition, court records show that in June, the Freedom Mortgage Corporation filed a foreclosure notice in Rockville Superior Court alleging that Oliver Herbert hadn’t paid a bank loan of $132,554 on a mortgage for the home. The judge issued a default motion against him for failing to appear in September, in effect granting the bank’s foreclosure. Last week, attorneys for the mortgage company filed a motion seeking a judgement of strict foreclosure and are asking a judge to give the mortgage company immediate possession of the home where Elizabeth Herbert still lives.
Some of Herbert’s friends started a Facebook page called “Justice for Oli Herbert” as investigations continue regarding the cause of his death and many suspect foul play. His wife stated the following, “Oli was apparently self-treating for manic-depression that has run in his family for several generations. Anti-depressants were found in his system, as well as a sleep aid.”
The band released the following message on Instagram when they learned of his death. “We were devastated to learn that Oli Herbert, our friend, guitar player, and founding member of All That Remains, has passed away. Oli was an incredibly talented guitarist and song writer who defined Rock and Metal from the Northeast. His impact on the genres and our lives will continue indefinitely… The band and family request that you please respect their privacy and remember Oli by celebrating the great music he made.”
Just before Herbert’s death on September 14, 2018, All That Remains released a new song titled “Fuck Love” from their upcoming studio album set for release in early 2019. On September 26, the band released an image of the cover art to their social media pages, revealing the title of the new record to be Victim of the New Disease. September 27, 2018 the band announced a release date of November 9.
On October 17, 2018, the band revealed through their Facebook page that Herbert had died. On November 9, 2018 Labonte revealed in an interview that Jason Richardson (formerly of Chelsea Grin and Born of Osiris) would be filling in as lead guitarist for their upcoming tours.
As investigations continue regarding the cause of death, fans worldwide will always remember Herbert for his musical contributions. The greatest gift of music is that it stands the test of time.
Photo Credit: Boston Lynn Schulz