Night Cafe lead singer Sean Martin has died suddenly at the age of 26.
His band members shared the devastating news on social media on Monday as they paid tribute to their “childhood best friend.”
Guitarist Josh Higgins, 26, guitarist, drummer Carl Dillon, 27, and bassist Arran O’Connell, 26, released a joint statement that read: “We are devastated to announce the sudden passing of our best friend Sean.”
“Words cannot describe the pain we are feeling right now, we are still struggling to process it all.” We ask everyone to respect the privacy of Sean’s family and friends during this difficult time.
“Sean wasn’t just our bandmate, he was our best childhood friend with whom we shared so many memories before the band even formed.”
Tragic news: The Night Cafe singer Sean Martin has died suddenly at the age of 26
Heartbreaking: Guitarist Josh Higgins, 26, guitar, drummer Carl Dillon, 27, (2L) and bassist Arran O’Connell, 26, released a joint statement honoring Sean (2R)
They continued, “We made so many more memories along the way and accomplished things we only dreamed of and will cherish forever.”
“His memory will live on forever in our hearts and through the music he put out into the world for all of you.” RIP Sean Martin ❤️’
Sean’s cause of death has not been revealed.
The Night Cafe, whose name is inspired by the painting by Vincent van Gogh, was formed in 2013 and released two EPs: Get Away from the Feeling and Bunkbed in 2017 and 2018, before releasing their debut studio album 0151 in 2019.
The Liverpudlian group opened for The Wombats – made up of Matthew Murphy, Tord Øverland Knudsen and Dan Haggis – who paid tribute online.
They commented: “I’m so sorry to hear that guy, he was literally the nicest, loveliest guy to have on tour.”
“Not to mention how talented and great he was. Our thoughts are with all of you and most closely with Sean. Lots of love and happy memories, The Bats x’
Sean’s mother Catherine thanked fans for their support and shared: “Thank you everyone for your love and supportive messages for our beautiful and talented son Sean ❤️❤️❤️”
She added on Facebook: “Thank you all for the warm messages for our beautiful Sean.”
“His music, the songs he wrote, the person he was, his smile, his heart and his soul were so precious.” “Their voices are a comfort to us all at this time.”
Tribute: Sean’s mother Catherine and The Wombats – made up of Matthew Murphy, Tord Øverland Knudsen and Dan Haggis – paid tribute online
Last year, Sean revealed he was struggling with his health and needed surgery for a mysterious illness.
He told fans on Facebook in April: “Some of you may know that I’ve been struggling with my health over the last few years, which has been a big obstacle for TNC and to be honest it’s been pretty rough sex .” There is no time for all of us.
“Luckily I recently got a diagnosis which explains what’s going on, but unfortunately that means I need surgery next week.” (on my birthday)
“That means we’re sorry to say we have to pull out of the @wombatsofficial shows this month. “We’re hurting but to be honest we’re so excited to finally be able to “To move forward properly without anything standing in our way.”