American guitarist Neal Casal, who was most famous for his work with the Chris Robinson Brotherhood and Ryan Adam’s former band The Cardinals has passed away at the age of 50. According to press reports, the singer had committed suicide.
A press statement posted on social media reads:
“It’s with great sadness that we tell you our brother Neal Casal has passed away. As so many of you know, Neal was a gentle, introspective, deeply soulful human being who lived his life through artistry and kindness. His family, friends and fans will always remember him for the light that he brought to the world. Rest easy Neal, we love you.”
It’s with great sadness that we tell you Neal Casal has passed. As so many know, Neal was a gentle, soulful human who lived life through artistry & kindness. His family, friends & fans will always remember the light that he brought to the world. Rest easy Neal, we love you. pic.twitter.com/Q0ap7jrkUC
— Neal Casal (@nealcasal) August 27, 2019
Casal was a member of The Cardinals from 2004 to 2009 and recorded three studio albums: Easy Tiger, Cardinology, and III/IV. He appeared in every single studio album with the Chris Robinson Brotherhood after his tenure with The Cardinals, beginning with Big Moon Ritual through this year’s Servants of the Sun.
His death has been mourned by various individuals across social media since his passing, with William Tyler of Lambchop and Silver Jews, musician Jason Isbell and actress Minnie Driver sharing posts in remembrance of the performer on social media.
Sending love to anyone close to Neal Casal – what a loss ❤
— william tyler (@williamtylertn) August 27, 2019
This is unbearably sad. Neal was a sweet soul+extraordinary guitarist. He played on a record I made called ‘Seastories’ the initial recording of which, was incredibly hard. He met all the challenges with patience and kindness. He was a love https://t.co/moDdRU0u5G via @pitchfork
— Minnie Driver (@driverminnie) August 27, 2019
Neal Casal was a fantastic musician and a great photographer and a kind, sweet soul. We’ll miss him.
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) August 27, 2019