Angelo Bruschini, who played guitar in Massive Attack since 1995 and was in The Blue Aeroplanes before that, has died. He was 62. The news was shared by Massive Attack, who wrote, “Devastated. How lucky we all were to share such a life together. Such a brilliant, eccentric talent. Impossible to quantify your contribution. RIP Angelo.”
In July, Bruschini announced he had been diagnosed with lung cancer. “Twice now I have been told ‘Good luck’ by specialists at the hospital over lung cancer, I think I’m fucked!,” Bruschini wrote on Facebook in July. “Had a great life, seen the world many many times, met lots of wonderful people, but the door is closing, think I will write a book.”
Bruschini had been in Bristol bands since the late-’70s, and before joining Massive Attack was one of the guitarists in The Blue Aeroplanes, who had a few minor UK hits, toured with REM, and were an influence on Radiohead. His textural guitar style was a big part of the band’s early-’90s albums Swagger and Beatsongs. “We are devastated to announce the passing of our brother Angelo Bruschini,” The Blue Aeroplanes wrote. “Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. Rest In Peace Ange x.”
After leaving The Blue Aeroplanes, Massive Attack tapped him as a live member, and he became the permanent lead guitarist of the group during the recording of their classic third album, Mezzanine, where his unique style was a big part of the record. Bruschini also produced Bristol band Strangelove’s self-titled 1997 album, and played on Jane Taylor’s 2005 single “Blowing This Candle Out.”
Rest easy, Angelo.
