It’s with a heavy heart we report Liverpool jangle pop duo Her’s and their tour manager passed away in a road accident whilst on tour in the United States.
Tragic news of Stephen Fitzpatrick and Audun Laading, as well as manager Trevor Engelbrektson’s death was announced publicly by their label Heist Or Hit last night (28 March).
The label confirm the accident occurred “in the early hours of Wednesday (27 March) whilst travelling to a show in Santa Ana, California,” from Pheonix, Arizona. It was set to be the penultimate date of a 19-date North American tour.
The band were one of the most respected up-and-coming bands in the UK, and making huge progress in North America – they were packing out some of the continent’s most respected venues and attracting discerning listeners in the process.
Her's were touring in support of their debut album Invitation to Her’s. Their label describe their music as “astonishing. An aptitude for melody, fun, and entertainment combined with a complexity that was as sophisticated as it was stylish.”
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Those who know Her's personally found them a beacon of light as people. “Fans they made a point of meeting and spending time with, such was their passion and humbleness," say the label.
Gigwise first published an article about Her's in 2016 when Liverpool-based writer Sam Meaghan interviewed them for an introducing piece. The interview, which you can read here, captures their humble, bright, energetic personalities well.
Reactions to the death have been understandably a mix of shock, disbelief, and heartbreak. It's a huge loss. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the friends, family, loved ones and any one affected by this awful news.
Absolutely gutted and heartbroken to hear the news about Her's. Our thoughts go out to their family and loved ones at this time. They were truly wonderful people that always bought a smile to our faces whenever we ran into them. Shocked is an understatement x
— I D L E S (@idlesband) March 29, 2019
Her's are my favourite band & the most humble, talented, funny guys. I was in their latest music video & walked away feeling so happy & inspired. They are my inspiration musically have given me a chance to see how beautiful people can be in this weird world. RIP lads x #Hers pic.twitter.com/EYDt5H2aAm
— Sam Coomber (@Coozak) March 29, 2019
Absolutely devastating news this morning. Her’s unique debut was an Album of the Month, accompanied by some truly wonderful in-stores. Much loved friends of Rough Trade, a very bright future taken away far far too soon. Thoughts with family, friends and fans x
— Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) March 29, 2019
Photo: Emma Swann pic.twitter.com/ksF8u24P6q
This is absolutely dreadful news. So very sad. https://t.co/QWKwCtvR7V
— Jack Mitchell (@jackthesticks) March 28, 2019
All of us here so sad to hear about Liverpool duo #Hers So much talent taken from us all too soon. Tragic news and our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Stephen, Audun & Trevor's family and friends. Love from all the Bella Union family. Xxxxx
— bella union (@bellaunion) March 28, 2019
