Following the release of the acclaimed Purple Mountains debut album just weeks ago, we were saddened this morning by the news that Silver Jews and Purple Mountains frontman David Berman has passed away. He was 52.
Berman was set to begin his tour in support of new album Purple Mountains this weekend in North America. The cause of death is unknown.
Following the release of Silver Jews’ final album in 2008, Purple Mountains was his first album in 11 years after living for more than a decade as a recluse. It was a sharp reminder of what an incredible songwriter and sharp lyricist Berman was, and his talent will be missed. Read the X-Press review HERE.
Silver Jews rose to prominence in the 90s with Berman alongside Pavement members Stephen Malkmus and Bob Nastanovich. The group went through several line up changes and released six studio albums between 1994 and 2008. Berman remained the only constant member of the band during that time period.
He was also a much loved poet and cartoonist.
R.I.P. David Berman (1967-2019).
