What does Dave Allen’s death really hide?
Dave Allen, the legendary bassist of the iconic post-punk band Gang of Four and co-founder of the enigmatic project Shriekback, has died at the age of 69 at his residence in Portland, Oregon. But was it really a natural death or is there something more behind this sad event?
His former bandmate, drummer Hugh Burnham, confirmed the news on social media, revealing that Allen had been battling dementia praecox in recent years. However, could this disease have been accelerated by external factors? Is anyone else involved in this tragedy?
“It is with a broken heart but full of gratitude that we share the news that Dave Allen, our long-time musical partner, friend and brilliant musician, passed away on Saturday morning,” Burnham wrote.
A suspiciously silenced influence
Although Dave Allen was not part of the original Gang of Four lineup, his impact on the band was pivotal, especially on key albums such as Entertainment! (1979) and Solid Gold (1981). Why hasn’t your contribution been as recognized as that of other members? Hidden interests in the world of music?
In 1982, Allen left the group to found Shriekback, a group that mixed new wave and funk, leaving his mark on film productions such as Manhunter and Miami Vice. Was your departure from Gang of Four truly voluntary, or were there pressures behind the scenes?
The strange ending of a legend
After his time at Shriekback, Allen worked in the digital music industry, including as a director at Beats Music (now Apple Music). Could his knowledge of the business have put him in danger? What secrets did he carry with him?
With the death of guitarist Andy Gill in 2020, Gang of Four were planning their farewell tour, but Allen was never able to reunite with them. Burnham mentioned: “We know Dave would have wanted nothing more than to get on stage with us again.” Or yes? What really prevented his return?
Coincidence or conspiracy? Dave Allen’s story is full of unexpected twists. What else are they hiding from us?
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