Earlier this afternoon, when I first heard whispers on Twitter that Olivia Tremor Control co-founder Bill Doss had passed away, I couldn’t believe it was true. But now, following an initial tweet by Gabe Vodicka of Flagpole, a magazine based in Doss’ hometown of Athens, Georgia, another local journalist has spoken to a coroner and verified the report. Further confirmation comes from the band itself; the Olivia Tremor Control website now bears a photo of Doss with the caption, “1968-2012. We are devastated by the loss of our brother Bill Doss. We are at a loss for words.” No further details about the 44-year-old multi-instrumentalist’s death have been released.
In addition to his work with The Olivia Tremor Control, Doss was one of the founding members of the Elephant 6 Recording Company, the collective that also birthed Neutral Milk Hotel, The Apples in Stereo, and of Montreal, among others. He was a member of several Elephant 6-affiliated bands over the years, and had a solo project called The Sunshine Fix.
I feel incredibly lucky to have seen The Olivia Tremor Control just last month at Brooklyn’s Northside Festival. They’re one of my favorite bands, and although I have no idea how Doss’ death will affect their future, it’s impossible to imagine them without his versatile and buoyant presence. Flavorpill sends its most heartfelt condolences to Doss’ family, friends, and fans. Join us after the jump as we listen to the magical “I Have Been Floated” on repeat.
The Olivia Tremor Control — “I Have Been Floated”