Cabaret Voltaire founder Richard H. Kirk has died.
A pivotal figure in UK electronic music, his role in the emergence of Cabaret Voltaire blended barbed minimalism, skeletal post-punk elements, and scorched synths to soundtrack post-industrial England.
Across a decade-long spell Cabaret Voltaire evolved through several distinct phases, touching on industrial, EBM, and the birth of rave while walking their ow path.
Initially splitting in 1994, Cabaret Voltaire were inactive for 20 years, until the project returned in the 21st century with Richard H. Kirk as the fulcrum.
Releasing a fantastic album last year, news of Kirk's passing was confirmed by Mute a few moments ago. In a statement, the label write:
It is with great sadness that we confirm our great and dear friend, Richard H. Kirk has passed away. Richard was a towering creative genius who led a singular and driven path throughout his life and musical career. We will miss him so much.
We ask that his family are given space at this time.
It is with great sadness that we confirm our great & dear friend, Richard H. Kirk has passed away.
Richard was a towering creative genius who led a singular & driven path throughout his life & musical career.
We will miss him so much.
We ask that his family are given space. pic.twitter.com/Ok8u3dNx3T— Mute (@MuteUK) September 21, 2021
