Luke Liang, the keyboard player and guitarist in Sydney’s Papa Vs Pretty has been found dead at age 28.
Liang’s passing was confirmed by Papa Vs Pretty drummer Tom Myers who said the musician suffered from depression.
In a statement to Facebook, Myers posted:
Hey Everyone,
As some of you may or may not know, our dear friend Luke Liang lost his battle with depression two days ago.
I first met Luke in Rhodes shopping centre when i was 16 after a Papa vs Pretty rehearsal in Meadowbank. He was 18 at the time and of course the only one who could buy me cigarettes.
Luke officially joined Papa vs Pretty just before the writing and recording of our second album. He was intimidatingly amazing at his instrument and made our music stand out. I can still hear his playing on it today and its just as masterful.
I will never ever forget our car trips to and from rehearsals, hendrix, singing along to City and Colour, and the ever evolving ‘hi 5’. (My favourite was the ‘try to high 5 as little as possible’ one), 2nd and 3rd breakfasts, butter coffees, Luke’s full vegan Bolognese was an absolute thing of beauty.
After the band broke up, Luke became the absolute “go-to” session guy. Quite simply, he was the best. Keys/Guitar/every other instrument, If you were lucky enough to see Luke play, you’ll understand. My heart aches for all who shared the stage with him, I’ll bet they were the best gigs you’ve ever played.
Luke was perhaps the most impressive man i’ve ever met. Literally anything he turned his hand to he mastered (sometimes in a matter of hours), a willing listener and an incredible mate to all of us.
We are all naturally devastated, but we’re much stronger if we’re together. It’s been so overwhelming to receive so many well wishes and messages of support. Thank you.
Luke’s family is also naturally devastated and coming to terms with the loss. They have requested that sharing the news is done in a respectful manner so as to honour our memory of Luke.
If you need to talk, I am here.
If you want to just hang out, I am here.
I am so sorry for everyone’s loss.
Thanks.
Papa Vs Pretty formed in Sydney as a three piece in 2006. Liang joined in 2012 but in 2014 they decided to call it quits, ending the band fater two albums ‘United In Isolation’ (2011) and ‘White Deep Park’ (2014).
Support is available for those who may be distressed by phoning Lifeline 13 11 14; Mensline 1300 789 978; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800.
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