Post-punk band The Scientists have announced the death of legendary drummer Leanne Cowie, saying they are ‘devastated’.
Frontman Kim Salmon shared the heartbreaking news to fans on Facebookon Friday with a tribute to his late bandmate.
‘Leanne Chock neé Cowie, the beating heart of the Scientists since 1985 no longer beats in this world but will forever live in mine and my fellow Scientists hearts,’ Kim wrote.
‘I’ve known her since this time in 1984 and she has, since then been so much more than a bandmate.’
The Australian group rose to prominence in the late 70s as a punk outfit before shifting their sound in the 80s to swamp rock.
They are best known for songs like Atom Bomb Baby, Weird Love and Human Jukebox, gaining an underground following.
Cowie joined the Scientists in 1984 as their tour manager but ended up replacing drummer Phillip Hertz who had a short stint after the exit of Brett Rixon in 1985.
Salmon continued: ‘She’s remained one of my very very closest friends since and I’m devastated by her passing.’
‘My deepest condolences to her family and the huge network of people that were lucky enough to be her friend.’
Fans sent their support to Salmon and Cowie’ family, praising her for how ‘unique’ her talent on the drums was.
Singer-songwriter Penny Ikinger called her a ‘trailblazer’, and added: ‘Like you, she had so much style in everything she did.
‘Thank you for your support of so many female musicians whose talents might not have been under the spotlight if not for you. R.I.P. Leanne.’
US musician Jerry Teel — of The Honeymoon Killers — also paid tribute, sharing: ‘I’m so sorry to hear this Kim.
”I never really talked to her, unfortunately, but when I saw her playing with you guys on stage, she had such a steady and focused presence with no need to be flashy, like someone you could count on to be there when you needed them.
‘That is what makes a band great and that is what makes a friendship real. Sending love your way.’
The Scientists disbanded in the late 80s but reunited in 2006, with Cowie back on drums, playing a string of festivals and gigs.
They remained reunited with sporadic performances over the past two decades and in 2021 released their eighth studio album Negativity.
Cowie and her bandmates toured extensively around Australia and Europe, wrapping up the tour in 2023.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
