It appears as though 2017 is planning on taking our beloved musicians from us just as 2016 has.
Today brings news that iconic electronic musician Milka Vainio, who helped shape and push the boundaries of electronic music through electronic outfit Pan Sonic and his solo project Ø, has passed away at the age of 53 from still unannounced causes.
Vainio first formed Pan Sonic (first known as Panasonic) with Ilpo Väisänen and Sami Salo in 1993. The group went on to release a dozen studio albums, including hallmark electronic albums Vaiko (1995) and Kesto (234.48:4) (2004). The group would also collaborate with Suicide’s Alan Vega for the LP Endless in 1998. The duo has stayed busy up into the 21st century, scoring the film Atomin paluu. Vainio also released several solo records under several monikers, including his own name as well as Ø and Philus.
While his family has yet to announce the cause of death, the electronic music community across the board has mourned his passing and sent their regards.
Mika Vainio the masterhttps://t.co/d7kXBeqJ5a
— Holly Herndon (@hollyherndon) April 13, 2017
TERRIBLE TO LOOSE A FRIEND AND A MUSICAL GENIUS- love u mika — alva noto (official) (@carstennicolai) April 13, 2017
“the so-called absolute music doesn’t exist…When I listen to music what is important is what is evoked in me, what I feel.” – Mika Vainio pic.twitter.com/kocZjmoaVS
— Ghostly (@ghostly) April 13, 2017
devastated https://t.co/QIW1jMLTXm
— modern love (@ourmodernlove) April 13, 2017
We are devastated to hear about Mika Vainio. It was an honour to work with him. Our thoughts are with his friends and family. Mike & Jon. — Touch (@touchmusic) April 13, 2017