The former bassist from the legendary post-punk band, Gang of Four, Dave Allen passed away at the age of 69.
Part of the band’s original late 1970s and early 1980s line up, the guitarist passed away on Saturday (4.05) after suffering from early onset dementia.
His death was announced
On behalf of himself and surviving founder member, singer Jon King, the band’s drummer Hugo Burnham took to the Gang of Four’s Facebook page writing:
“It is with broken yet full hearts that we share the news that Dave Allen, our old music partner, friend, and brilliant musician, died on Saturday morning.” “He was at home with his family.” “Dave had endured the early-onset of mixed dementia for some years which has been a heartbreaking time for his wife Paddy, his children, and close friends.” “Our love and thoughts are with them. Jon and I (Hugo) went to see him and spent a lovely afternoon with him and the family. We talked and laughed for hours, sharing rich and vivid memories of good times together. Adventures, careers in music, raising families, our interwoven lives spanning half a century. We’ve been so very lucky to have had the Ace of Bass in our lives.”
Before their bandmate had succumbed to his illness, King and Burnham had planned to try and get Dave on stage during the current lineup’s upcoming farewell U.S. tour.
Gang of Four rose to prominence with their 1979 debut LP Entertainment!, with Allen also appearing on the follow-up Solid Gold prior to leaving the group and forming band Shriekback. Considered one of the most important post-punk groups, artists including R.E.M., Nirvana, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers have cited them as an influence.
The fourth member of the original lineup, Andy Gill, passed away in 2020.
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: Paul Hudson