Justin Benoit, Former Member Of Cold Cave Dies

Justin Benoit, former member of American alternative synth pop band, Cold Cave has died. Pitchfork reports Cold Cave founder and front man, Wes Eishold made the announcement on the band’s Facebook page.

“Friends, It saddens me to have to tell you of the tragic passing of Justin “Chachi” Benoit. As many of you know we lived together in my Philadelphia house, and he continued to live there until his passing. He was my friend and band member. He was a genius with impeccable taste. He loved his family, his friends, The Fall and when he would see broken umbrellas on the street. We love him and miss him dearly. Rest In Peace.
Please let’s be respectful of everyone’s privacy to grieve.”

Justin Benoit performed in Cold Cave’s touring band in 2009, following the release of their debut album, Love Comes Close. He appeared in the video clip for the title track “Love Comes Close,” a dark electro pop song reminiscent of Joy Division. Benoit also featured on the band’s EP Stars Explode, a collaboration with experimental electronic project, Prurient with Dominic Ferrows. Justin Benoit was also an author and poet with works published by Eishold’s own independent publishing house, Heartworm Press. He appeared regularly across the United States performing in musical and spoken word recitals.

Details of Justin Benoit’s death have not been released. The Cold Cave official website makes only a brief mention to the musician’s passing with a photo and short line, “In remembrance of Justin Benoit. Rest in peace Chachi. Love You Forever.” Eishold posted an equally brief message on Cold Cave’s Twitter feed together with a photo of his friend.

RIP Chachi Justin Benoit. Lifetime friend and CC member. Love you forever. twitter.com/ColdCave23/sta…

— Wesley Eisold (@ColdCave23) February 22, 2013