It was announced earlier today by Boom Boom Satellites‘ staff, that the duo’s singer and guitarist Michiyuki Kawashima passed away after his years-long struggle with brain tumor. After going through several treatments over the past years, he had a relapse again last Autumn and his condition started to get worse from that point. They had to cancel their planned show in Paris early October and after that, besides a very few concerts at home, they remained inactive, concentrating on Kawashima’s treatment. However it was announced early Summer, that his condition worsened even more and they decided the close the band’s history, so Kawashima can spend all his time with his family and as a farewell to their fans, they released the four tracks they managed to finish from the album they were working on. And that release, Lay Your Hands On Me turned out to be a difficult listen… while it was essential BBS material, that had all the elements of the their unique mixture of rock and electronic music, it was also very different, a lot more peaceful and ethereal than anything they ever released. It was clearly a farewell, the soundtrack of a man’s journey towards the unknown, coming from someone who is finally at peace with his life and fate. And as a result, all four tracks are extremely beautiful and painful at the same time.

After the release there wasn’t any word about Kawashima’s condition for a long while, until today’s announcement. The English translation below was posted on Boom Boom Satellites facebook page, along with a message from the band’s bassist, Masayuki Nakano. Farewell and rest in peace…

【To everyone who has supported BOOM BOOM SATELLITES over the years】

It is our sad duty to inform you that Michiyuki Kawashima of BOOM BOOM SATELLITES passed away at 5:12am on October 9th, 2016, after his continued battle with brain tumor.

We offer our sincerest appreciation to everyone who supported BOOM BOOM SATELLITES and Michiyuki Kawashima over the years.

The wake and funeral will be held privately for family and close friends, with a farewell event for fans at a later date. Details will be posted on the band’s website.

【Comment from Masayuki Nakano of BOOM BOOM SATELLITES】

At 5:12am on October 9th, BOOM BOOM SATELLITES’s vocalist Michiyuki Kawashima set off on the next stage of his journey.
I imagine he is soaring around the world, finally freed from the restrictions of his body. His passing is not a tragedy, but the achievement of a lifetime goal and a happy ending. The love of our many fans supported Michiyuki Kawashima and BOOM BOOM SATELLITES on their journey, and we are truly happy and lucky because of you.
On behalf of Michiyuki Kawashima, I would like to thank all our fans and colleagues again.

“Thank you for supporting us up until now. Live your lives with passion and energy and keep the music we made, the time we spent together, and the memories we shared close to you.”

“One more thing, we are BOOM BOOM SATELLITES!!”

Masayuki Nakano

bbs