22 July 2020

Tributes pour in for Cardiacs frontman Tim Smith who has died at 59

Tim Smith, the frontman of British cult rock band Cardiacs, has died at the age of 59.

His brother Jim led the tributes in a statement shared on the band's website, which stated: 'I’m sorry, on such a glorious day, to tell you the news that my dearest brother Tim passed away suddenly last night.

'Sorry it’s a brief message but I don’t have it in me to speak at length just now. Love to you all. Be safe. With respect, Jim.'

Smith was left with neurological disorder dystonia after suffering from a heart attack in 2008. The condition left him with impaired speech and movement.

Smith began playing guitar in 1975 and in 1977 he and brother Jim formed the band. 

They released nine albums between 1980 and 1999, with their most famous song Is This the Life? being released in 1988.

The band, who went through a range of line-ups, are credited as inspiring groups such as Radiohead and Blur.

The band have been on an indefinite hiatus since Smith’s heart attack in 2008. He spoke about his condition to The Quietas in 2017.

He said: “The only way I can try and let you know how I feel at the moment is... imagine if you were wearing a skintight bodysuit made of fishnet all around you with electrical pulses going all the time. This is what my body feels like unless I fall asleep.”

Tributes to Smith have been pouring in on social media.

TV presenter Matthew Wright wrote: “Just been told Tim Smith of Cardiacs fame is no longer with us. He’s singing to god in person I guess. My deepest condolences to his loved ones, his many friends and countless fans. A sad day for music”

Band The Magic Numbers tweeted: “RIP Tim Smith Thank you for creating a very different world of music”

While actor Mark Benton said: “So sad to hear about Tim Smith’s passing. I love the Cardiacs. He had a totally unique sound RIP”

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