Peter Jones, a former drummer for Australian band Crowded House, died Friday at age 45. According to reports, the Liverpool native had been suffering from brain cancer.
The band, whose hits include “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” “Something So Strong” and “Weather With You,” confirmed the death in a statement on its website.
“We are in mourning today for the death of Peter Jones. We remember his as a warm-hearted, funny and talented man, who was a valuable member of Crowded House. He played with style and spirit. We salute him and send out love and best thoughts to his family and friends.”
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Founded in 1985 by frontman Neil Finn, the group’s first drummer, Paul Hester, quit in 1994. Jones replaced Hester that year and played with the band until they broke up in 1996. Hester committed suicide in 2005 after a bout with depression.
When the band reunited in 2007, Jones did not join them and the drummer role is currently filled by Matt Sherrod.
Finn wrote on Twitter, “I am very sad to hear tonight that Peter Jones has died. A Great man and a wonderful drummer. RIP Pete.”