24 October 2023 , 10:47
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Angelo Bruschini of Massive Attack has died, with the band issuing a heartbreaking statement.
He had been diagnosed with Pleomorphic Carcinoma, a rare form of lung cancer that typically occurs in less than one per cent of cases. Sadly, the survival rates for patients battling this form of cancer are very low and treatments are said to be ineffective.
News of Angelo's death had been circulating on social media for a day but the news was confirmed by the group on October 24.
The late star's band took to their Facebook page to share three posts to mark Angelo's devastating death. They posted two black images with the caption "#RIPangelo." Before a second post saw Angelo performing on stage alongside the words: "Devastated. How lucky we all were to share such a life together. Such a brilliant, eccentric talent. Impossible to quantify your contribution RIP Angelo."
Angelo's wife, Jessica, also shared the news of his death. In a heartfelt Facebook post, she said: "I am very sad to announce that my beautiful husband, Angelo Bruschini, died on 23rd October 2023 at 12.15am. It was from a rare and aggressive cancer."
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Angelo's wife and bandmates confirmed the sad news (Redferns)
He had battled an aggressive form of cancer (Facebook/Jessica Merritt)His death comes just four months after Angelo took to social media to confirm he had been diagnosed with lung cancer. In what is now his final social media post, he said: "Twice now I have been told 'Good luck' by specialists at the hospital over lung cancer, I think I'm f***ed. 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."
When one friend insisted he should remain positive, Angelo responded: "The type I have is moving fast." He later went on to say: "It seems my rare type is aggressive... Had a great life and hope you too." Days after sharing his diagnosis, Angelo said he had been told his cancer was "inoperable" and that he needed to try chemotherapy in a bid to fight the disease.
Angel later added: "I love you you all and music the only thing I know is coming whilst I have time. sounding good to me!" He joined the group in the mid-1990s and performed on their 1998 hit album, Mezzanine.
Fans have since rushed to pay tribute to the late star, with one writing: "So sad to hear this loved Angelo." A second went on to pen: "His performance on Angel Live at Abbey Road Studios was next-level playing. Rest in Peace, Angelo." Meanwhile, another typed: "Seeing Angelo play made you understand what a one-of-a-kind guitarist he was, RIP to a legend."
Angelo's wife confirmed the devastating news (Facebook/Jessica Merritt)"Deepest condolences to you, his family, and his friends - loved his playing wherever I saw the band live," said another. But Angelo wasn't only known for playing guitar for Massive Attack. He was also a member of The Numbers, Rimshots and The Blue Aeroplanes.
Paying tribute, The Blue Aeroplanes said: "We are devastated to announce the passing of our brother Angelo Bruschini. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. Rest In Peace Ange x." Meanwhile, Bristol Model Car Club, which Angelo was a member of said: "The very sad news has reached us yesterday of the passing of one of our own.
"Many of you will remember the charismatic Angelo Bruschini racing his LMP at Bristol. Angelo has had a battle with lung cancer and has now very sadly passed. Not only will Ang be missed by his racing pals but the Bristol music community in which he played a pivotal role in so many bands.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. Rest In Peace Ange"