Band’s singer dies aged 35
THE lead singer of a Newcastle rock band has passed away aged just 35.
Aran Glover, who fronted heavy metal band We Are Knuckle Dragger, was described as someone who “warmed the hearts of everyone he met” following his sudden death this week.
After moving to Newcastle from his home in Belfast, Aran decided to stay in the city and founded the band in 2008 with bassist Pete Currie and drummer Shaun Abbott.
They released two EPs and two albums and performed at festivals such as Reading and Leeds.
David Smith, who runs Sapien Records in Durham, studied music with Aran at Newcastle University and signed the band to his label.
He paid a moving tribute to his friend, who will be laid to rest in Belfast on Thursday.
David said: “My amazing friend Aran Glover, with his natural musical talent, quick-witted charm and charisma, soon warmed the hearts of everyone he met – including mine on our very first day at Newcastle University, where we both studied music.
“An astonishing guitarist, drummer, pianist, composer, vocalist and frontman, Aran was someone who lived to entertain and who relished at every opportunity embedding his raw emotion into the crowds of enthralled listeners.
“A musician who was always in demand, he enjoyed nothing more than being involved with numerous musical projects. He was instrumental in achieving great things for everyone involved with his much-loved group We Are Knuckle Dragger, touching the hearts and minds of fans around the world with albums recorded by distinguished producers Ross Robinson (LA) and Steve Albini (Chicago), with tours with Meshuggah and Dillinger Escape Plan and through appearances at ArcTanGent and Reading Leeds Festival.
“Aran adored performing and embodied the essence and heart of a DIY musician, always opening up his house and offering hospitality to touring musicians.
“He loved to talk to anyone and everyone.
“He was one of those amazing people who you knew immediately in his presence was a heart-warming and endearing gentleman. Everyone who ever met him always remembered how, when and where they met him.
“There are just too many stories to tell about Aran (the majority of them comical). It is with these wonderful memories and his music that people will always remember him dearly.
“Thoughts are truly with his loving and wonderful family. Aran Glover will always be in hearts.”