Shortly after playing a show in Edmonton’s Starlight Room on March 26th 2013, Matt Mays guitarist Jay Smith was pronounced dead.
Mays made a post on Facebook earlier this evening.
“Our guitar player and dear friend Jay Smith passed away this morning in Edmonton. As you can all imagine, we are completely devastated. However, in our heart of hearts we know that we need to Play on. Jay’s family as well as the band know he would have wanted it that way. All of the proceeds from the remaining shows will be put into a trust for his two beautiful children. Jay’s wit, charm, and unparalleled love of music will never be forgotten.
He was our brother and he will live in our hearts and song forever.”
Matt, Serge Damien, Adam and Matt.”
The cause of death is, as yet unknown. Calgary was due to host Matt Mays tonight at Flames Central with guests July Talk, after playing The Starlite Room in Edmonton Tuesday evening. A US. tour with Gaslight Anthem is scheduled for mid-April 2013.
Our sympathies go out to family and friends of Jay Smith.