Manchester Orchestra Drummer Tim Very Passes Away at Age 42

Tim Very, the drummer of Manchester Orchestra, has passed away at the age of 42. The Atlanta-based rock band made the announcement on February 14, expressing their disbelief at the tragic news. Specifics regarding the cause of death have not been disclosed.

Tim Very’s Musical Journey

Born in Pensacola, Florida, Very began playing the drums as a teenager. He was inspired by his father, who was also a drummer. One of his musical influences was Dave Grohl, from whom he learned to play several Nirvana songs early on. In a 2022 interview with the podcast Drummers On Drumming, he reflected on his late start:
“I wasn’t one of those guys that got to start playing when I was like six years old. It took me a little while to kind of find my identity.”

Joining Manchester Orchestra

Very joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011, succeeding drummer Jeremiah Edmond. His first performance with the band took place in London during their tour supporting the album Simple Math. He recalled feeling nervous during that show, stating, “I threw up during it.” Despite that, he cherished the opportunity to play with musicians he admired.

A Legacy with the Band

Tim Very became the longest-serving drummer in Manchester Orchestra’s history. He contributed to three studio albums: Cope (2014), A Black Mile to the Surface (2017), and The Million Masks of God (2021). In 2023, the band released their latest EP, The Valley of Vision, and they are scheduled to unveil a live album titled Union Chapel in March.

Additional Contributions

Aside from his role in Manchester Orchestra, Very was a versatile session musician and producer. He co-founded Super Canoe, a production company based in Georgia.

Tributes from Bandmates

In a heartfelt statement, band members Andy Hull, Robert McDowell, and Andy Price reminisced about Tim’s character. They said, “Tim was instantly likable and interacted with everyone he met with kindness and warmth. His laugh was infectious.” They emphasized the impact he had on others and his unwavering dedication to music.

• Name: Tim Very
• Age at Passing: 42
• Place of Birth: Pensacola, Florida
• Band Joined: Manchester Orchestra (2011)
• Studio Albums:
  • Cope (2014)
  • A Black Mile to the Surface (2017)
  • The Million Masks of God (2021)
• Latest Releases: The Valley of Vision (2023), Union Chapel (March 2024)

Tim Very’s contributions to music and his vibrant personality will be greatly missed by fans and fellow musicians alike.