TV on the Radio bassist Gerard Smith dies

Yesterday brought some sad news from TV on the Radio. Gerard Smith, bassist for the New York City–based art-rock stars, passed away from lung cancer. He was 36.

The musician received the diagnosis after completing work on the TVOTR’s lastest full-length, Nine Types of Light, which was released earlier this month. At the time, the group’s members were optimistic about his treatment, issuing a statement that included the following: “Already we have seen dramatic results. Combine that with Gerard’s legendarily willful disposition and it might just be cancer that has the problem.”

Smith signed on with TVOTR just as the band started making national waves with its 2003 EP Young Liars. In light of his passing, the group, which has become one of the most respected names in alternative rock, has cancelled upcoming shows right up until April 26.

Here’s a TV on the Radio clip from happier times.