Tim Very, the longtime drummer for the acclaimed Atlanta band Manchester Orchestra, has died. He was 42 years old.
The band shared the devastating news on social media on Saturday, February 14, expressing their shock and heartbreak. Currently, the band has not disclosed a cause of death.
“Absolute Disbelief”
In an emotional statement, bandmates Andy Hull, Robert McDowell, and Andy Price paid tribute to their “brother.”
“The entire Manchester Orchestra family has been devastated by the sudden passing of our brother, Timothy Very,” the band wrote. “We’ve all been dreading sharing this news as we are all still in absolute disbelief.”
Furthermore, they described Very as a “force of positivity.” His humor and energy were the foundation of the band’s universe.
The Heartbeat of the Band
Tim Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, taking over for original drummer Jeremiah Edmond. Immediately, his impact was felt. He became the group’s longest-serving drummer, providing the powerful, intricate percussion that defined their modern sound.
Notably, he played on the band’s last three major studio albums:
- Cope (2014)
- A Black Mile to the Surface (2017)
- The Million Masks of God (2021)
Additionally, he performed on their most recent EP, The Valley of Vision (2023). The band is set to release a live album, Union Chapel, this March. Sadly, this will now serve as a poignant final chapter of his recorded work with the group.
A Life Dedicated to Rhythm
The son of a drummer, Very picked up the sticks as a teenager in Pensacola, Florida. In fact, he cited Dave Grohl and Nirvana as early influences.
“I instantly knew that this was something I was going to be doing for a long time,” he told the Drummers On Drumming podcast in 2022.
Outside of Manchester Orchestra, Very was a respected session musician. Moreover, he was a producer and co-founder of the Georgia production company Super Canoe.
A Joyful Dad and Friend
Beyond his musical talents, people remember Very for his kindness. The band noted that strangers quickly became friends in his presence. Also, his laugh was infectious. Above all, he was a dedicated family man.
“The only thing that Tim loved more than creating music was being with his family,” the band shared. “You’d be pressed to find a more joyful dad.”
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