Manchester Orchestra’s Tim Very dead at 42

Manchester Orchestra have announced the sudden passing of their longtime drummer, Tim Very. He was 42.

The Atlanta rock band shared the news in an emotional statement posted to social media on Saturday, describing Very as “the most beloved human being any of us were lucky enough to know” and saying they remain in “absolute disbelief”.

Very joined the indie band in 2011 and quickly became a central part of its identity. He played on several of their most successful songs, including A Black Mile to the Surface and The Million Masks of God.

In their social media tribute, the band remembered Very not just as a musician, but as a deeply kind and joyful presence whose warmth defined the Manchester Orchestra community.

“Tim was instantly likable and interacted with everyone he met with kindness and warmth,” the band wrote. “His laugh was infectious and he immediately made people feel invited and encouraged. His humour and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe.”

They also spoke about his life beyond music, describing him as a devoted family man and a joyful father.

“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.”

The band closed their statement, writing: “We love you Tim, thank you for loving us. You are a force of positivity that will be a constant presence in the rest of our days.”

No further details surrounding his death have been shared.