Photo: Crystal Fighters Facebook
Crystal Fighters have revealed that their drummer, Andrea Marongiu, has died.
The band posted a statement on their social media pages which said: "Dear Friends and Family of Crystal Fighters, It is with deep regret and sadness that we announce the tragic passing of our drummer and friend, Andrea Marongiu."
The statement goes on to describe Marongiu, who joined the band in 2010, as "one of the most brilliant, skilful and charismatic drummers to have ever graced the stage," as well as "an incredibly kind, loving friend to us all."
The cause of Marongiu's death hasn't been confirmed, but the final tweet from the drummer, who was recently married, was published on Thursday (11 September) and said that he was "at home recovering."
At home recovering ... watched #Locationlocationlocation , #GordonRamsay and #JamieOliver ... Defo getting older 😂😂😂
— Andrea Marongiu (@MarongiuMusic) September 11, 2014
Born and raised in Sardinia, Marongiu taught himself drums at the age of 11 as part of a school game with a friend, and continued to progress through watching videos.
In 2010, after moving to England "with very little English", Marongiu was telephoned by the Crystal Fighters, who had seen his videos, and asked to come for an audition. After sailing through the audition, he was asked to join the band at Bestival, and from then on continued as a permanent member.
