Tragic news has emerged from the music community as Manchester Orchestra announced the untimely passing of their drummer, Timothy Very, on February 14. While the cause of his death remains unconfirmed, the band expressed profound sorrow in a heartfelt post on social media platform X.
“The entire Manchester Orchestra family has been devastated by the sudden passing of our brother, Timothy Very,” the band shared. “The most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know in this life. We’ve all been dreading sharing this news as we are all still in absolute disbelief.”
Very joined the Atlanta-based band in 2011, stepping in to replace Jeremiah Edmond. He played a vital role in the band’s evolution, contributing to every album since the release of their critically acclaimed record, ‘Simple Math.’ His most recent work with the band was featured on their sixth album, ‘The Million Masks Of God,’ released in 2021.
In subsequent posts, the band reflected on Very’s warmth and charm, stating, “Tim was instantly likable and interacted with everyone he met with kindness and warmth. His laugh was infectious, and he immediately made people feel invited and encouraged. His humor and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe.”
The band shared their memories of how he transformed strangers into friends and friends into family, highlighting his undeniable light and passion for music. “He had an undeniable light that was only matched by his dedication and love for his craft that he was clearly put on earth to do. No words can ever do him justice.”
In a poignant message to those who loved Very, the band reassured them of his affection. “Please know, if you are someone who loved Tim, he loved you too. The only thing that Tim loved more than creating music was being with his family. You’d be pressed to find a more joyful dad.”
Very was celebrated for his versatile drumming style and complex rhythmic textures, which significantly contributed to the band’s emotionally rich output. His last live performance with Manchester Orchestra took place during a homecoming show at The Eastern in Atlanta this past November.
As the music world mourns the loss of a beloved artist, the legacy of Timothy Very will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the heartfelt music he helped create and the lives he touched.