On Friday, the legendary gothic rock band The Cure announced the passing of guitarist and keyboardist Perry Archangelo Bamonte, who was 65 years old. The band’s statement, posted on its official website, was brief yet heartfelt, noting that Bamonte had died after a short illness at home over Christmas.
Announcement and Statement
The Cure’s official website carried the following words: “It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte, who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas,”. The band continued, “Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative, ‘Teddy’ was a warm hearted and vital part of The Cure story,” and added, “Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He will be very greatly missed.”
Career with The Cure
Bamonte’s relationship with the band began in 1984, when he worked as a roadie and guitar technician. He officially joined The Cure as a full-time member in 1990, after keyboardist Roger O’Donnell quit. From that point he performed on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards, contributing to the group’s evolving sound.
He appeared on several key releases, starting with the 1992 album Wish, which included the hits “Friday I’m in Love” and “High.” He also played on Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), and the 2004 self-titled album. These recordings showcase his versatility and the depth he brought to the band’s music.
Legacy and Recent Performances
Over the course of 14 years, Bamonte took part in more than 400 shows, touring extensively across the globe. In 2005, the band’s singer and leader Robert Smith released him from the group. Despite this, Bamonte remained a respected figure within the band’s history.
He re-joined The Cure in recent years, touring with them in 2022 for an additional 90 gigs. His return was welcomed by fans who remembered his energetic stage presence and the warmth he added to live performances.
Final Performance and Film
Bamonte’s last show with the band took place on November 1, 2024, in London. The concert was a one-off event that marked the launch of their latest album, Songs of a Lost World, the first new record in 16 years. The performance was filmed and later released as The Cure: The Show of a Lost World, a feature that premiered in cinemas worldwide this month and is now available on Blu-ray and DVD.
The Associated Press reviewed Songs of a Lost World, describing it as “lush and deeply orchestral, swelling and powerful,” and calling it one of the best releases in the band’s career.
Recognition and Honors
In 2019, Bamonte was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside the rest of The Cure. This honor reflected his significant contributions to the band’s legacy and the broader music scene.
His death at 65 marks the end of a career that spanned multiple decades, albums, and tours. The band’s tribute underscores the lasting impact he had on The Cure’s identity and the hearts of fans worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Perry Bamonte, guitarist and keyboardist for The Cure, died at 65 after a short illness.
- He joined the band in 1990, contributing to albums such as Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, and the 2004 self-titled release.
- His final performance was on November 1, 2024, in London for the Songs of a Lost World launch, later filmed as a concert film.
The news of Bamonte’s passing is a profound loss for the gothic rock community and a reminder of the enduring influence he had on The Cure’s storied career.
