Tim Very, Manchester Orchestra Drummer, Dead at 42

“Tim was instantly likable and interacted with everyone he met with kindness and warmth. His laugh was infectious and he immediately made people feel invited and encouraged. His humor and energy were the very foundation that held together the entire MO universe. Strangers quickly became friends and friends became family.”

Although not Manchester Orchestra’s founding drummer — four drummers preceded Very from the band’s formation in 2004 to when he joined in 2011 — Very was the group’s longest-serving drummer, having spent the past 15 years in the band.

After joining the band in 2011, Very played on the group’s last three studio albums: 2014’s Cope, 2017’s A Black Mile to the Surface, and 2021’s The Million Masks of God. The band last released their The Valley of Vision EP in 2023.

“He had an undeniable light that was only matched by his dedication and love for the craft that he was clearly put on earth to do. No words can ever do him justice,” the band continued Saturday.

“The only thing that Tim loved more than creating music was being with his family. You’d be pressed to find a more joyful dad. We love you Tim, thank you for loving us. You are a force  of positivity that will be a constant presence in the rest of our days.”