The music world is in mourning following the announcement that Perry Archangelo Bamonte, the longtime guitarist and keyboardist for iconic goth rock band The Cure, has died at the age of 65.
A Quietly Vital Creative Force
The band confirmed the sad news on their official website, stating Bamonte passed away at home over the Christmas period following a short illness. In a heartfelt tribute, they described him as a "warm hearted and vital part of The Cure story," highlighting his quiet, intense, and hugely creative nature. Affectionately known as 'Teddy' within the group, his loss will be deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike.
Bamonte's journey with The Cure began long before he became a full member. He first worked with the band from 1984 to 1989 in supporting roles, including as a roadie and guitar technician. His big break came in 1990 when he officially joined, filling the vacancy left by departing keyboardist Roger O'Donnell.
Key Contributor to Iconic Albums
Joining just after the band's seminal 1989 album 'Disintegration' propelled them to mainstream success, Bamonte quickly became an integral part of their sound. He contributed his skills on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards to several key albums in the band's discography.
His playing features on 1992's 'Wish', home to global hits like 'Friday I'm in Love' and 'High'. He also performed on 'Wild Mood Swings' (1996), 'Bloodflowers' (2000), and the band's 2004 eponymous album. Over his initial 14-year tenure, he played at more than 400 live shows, solidifying his place on stage.
A Hall of Fame Legacy and Final Bow
Bamonte's time as a full-time member concluded in 2005 when he was dismissed by frontman Robert Smith. However, his connection to the band endured. In a significant honour, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019 alongside his former bandmates.
He rejoined The Cure for touring in recent years, playing 90 gigs with them in 2022. His final performance with the group was a poignant one: 1 November 2024 in London for a special event launching their first album in 16 years, 'Songs of a Lost World'. That concert was filmed for the cinematic release 'The Cure: The Show of a Lost World', which hit screens globally this month, serving as a fitting final chapter to his musical contribution.
The band's statement concluded with their thoughts and condolences extended to all of Bamonte's family, noting simply: "He will be very greatly missed."
