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Tribute to Dave Allen: Influential Bassist of Gang of Four Passes Away
Dave Allen, esteemed bassist known for his pivotal role in the legendary band Gang of Four, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on April 5. The announcement came via the band’s social media channels, but the specific cause of death was not disclosed. It was noted that Allen had been battling early-onset dementia for several years. He was 69.
Born David Geoffrey Allen in Kendal, England, he was raised in a working-class family before relocating to Leeds, where he immersed himself in the vibrant local music scene. In the late 1970s, he joined forces with Jon King, Andy Gill, and Hugo Burnham, becoming a key member of Gang of Four. He replaced the band’s original bassist, Dave Wolfson, just in time to contribute to the creation of their groundbreaking 1979 debut album, Entertainment!. The album’s unique blend of post-punk and funk combined with incisive lyrics that critiqued consumerism earned Gang of Four a devoted following among critics and music enthusiasts alike.
Following the success of their debut, Allen continued to influence the band’s sound on their second album, Solid Gold, which significantly impacted the US music scene and solidified their reputation. Their innovative style has been credited with shaping the sound of future rock legends such as R.E.M., Nirvana, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
However, internal conflicts and personal challenges, including fatigue and substance issues, led Allen to exit the band during a tour in 1981. That same year, he co-founded the band Shriekback with Barry Andrews from XTC, marking the start of a series of musical projects that included Elastic Purejoy, Low Pop Suicide, King Swamp, and Faux Hoax. Allen would later reunite with Gang of Four for a tour in 2004, though he departed shortly after due to unresolved tensions, particularly with the late Andy Gill. Subsequently, he transitioned into the music technology realm, holding positions at companies like Beats Music and Apple Music.
In a heartfelt tribute, surviving members Hugo Burnham and Jon King reminisced about a recent gathering with Allen and his family. “We talked and laughed for hours, sharing rich and vivid memories of good times together,” they reflected. “Adventures, careers in music, raising families, our interwoven lives spanning half a century. We’ve been so very lucky to have had the Ace of Bass in our lives.”
They also expressed a poignant wish, stating, “We know that Dave would have wanted nothing more than to step onstage with us again in Portland on our farewell US tour. But it’s now a bridge too far. Goodbye, Old Friend.”
Source
pitchfork.com