David Thomas, co-founder of Pere Ubu, has passed away.
The band confirmed the news on their social media channels with an official statement; David Thomas died at the age of 71, surrounded by his family, following a prolonged illness.
Pere Ubu rose from the remnants of the influential proto-punk band Rocket From The Tombs, part of a network of musicians in Cleveland, Ohio, during the mid-70s. Known for their avant-garde style, Pere Ubu's distinctive sound connected them to punk while being recognized as a post-punk influence, though they truly carved out their own unique path.
Early albums like ‘The Modern Dance’ and ‘Dub Housing’ became essential references for a new wave of musicians, with songwriting rich in imaginative potential.
A brief hiatus in the early 80s was interrupted by the release of ‘The Tenement Year’ in 1988, and the 90s brought a series of revitalized productions.
In his later years, David Thomas settled in Brighton, remaining central to Pere Ubu’s diverse musical endeavors. The turn of the Millennium introduced the band to a wider audience, with albums like 2014’s ‘Carnival Of Souls’ showcasing the extent of their artistry.
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Rest in peace, David Thomas. Below is Pere Ubu’s official statement:
David Lynn Thomas, the lead vocalist of Pere Ubu, Rocket From The Tombs, and various solo projects, has passed away following a long illness.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, he died in Brighton & Hove, with his wife and youngest step-daughter at his side, while MC5 played on the radio. He expressed his wish to return to his home in Pennsylvania, where he requested to be “thrown in the barn.”
David Thomas and his band were in the process of recording a new album, which he recognized would be his final one. We will strive to complete the mixing and finalization of this album so that his last music is accessible to everyone. Additionally, he requested that efforts continue to catalog live show recordings via the official bandcamp page. His autobiography was nearly finished, and we will ensure its completion for him. Pere Ubu’s Patreon will persist as a community, managed by communex.
We’ll conclude with his own words, which capture his essence better than we can:
“My name is David Fucking Thomas… and I’m the lead singer of the best fucking rock and roll band in the world.”
(Frigo Documentary)
Long Live Pere Ubu.
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David Thomas, co-founder of Pere Ubu, has passed away. The announcement was made through the band's social media platforms along with an official statement; David Thomas died with