Perry Bamonte, Iconic Guitarist of The Cure, Passes Away at 65

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Perry Archangelo Bamonte, a pivotal member contributing to the distinctive sound of The Cure, has passed away at the age of 65. The band confirmed his death on Friday via a statement on their official website, revealing he died peacefully at home following a short illness during the Christmas period.

“With great sorrow, we confirm the passing of our dear friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte,” the band expressed. They fondly recounted his qualities, noting he was “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant, and immensely creative,” highlighting his warm-hearted spirit that played an instrumental role in the band's lengthy journey. The group extended heartfelt condolences to his family, acknowledging that he will be profoundly missed.

Bamonte’s journey with The Cure commenced long before his official induction into the band. From 1984 to 1989, he contributed behind the scenes in various capacities, serving as a roadie and guitar technician. His dedication and musical insight eventually earned him a full-time position in 1990, following keyboardist Roger O'Donnell’s exit. Henceforth, Bamonte became integral to the band's touring and studio roster, contributing with guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards.

Joining The Cure soon after their commercial success with Disintegration in 1989, Bamonte played a significant role in several key releases including Wish (1992), featuring timeless hits such as “Friday I’m in Love” and “High,” along with Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), and their self-titled album in 2004. His intricate playing enriched the expansive and emotive sound defining The Cure during that period.

In 2005, Bamonte parted ways with the band after more than a decade of collaboration under circumstances involving frontman Robert Smith. By then, he had performed in over 400 concerts throughout 14 years. However, in due course, his relationship with The Cure was restored, allowing him to reunite with the band for an extensive tour in 2022, where he played nearly 90 shows.

His contributions to music were recognized when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2019 alongside the rest of The Cure, solidifying his significance in the band's legacy.

Bamonte’s final performance with The Cure occurred on November 1, 2024, in London during a special concert premiering Songs of a Lost World, their first studio album in 16 years. This event was captured on film and released globally as The Cure: The Show of a Lost World, now available in cinemas as well as on Blu-ray and DVD.

The Associated Press reviewed the album, praising Songs of a Lost World as “lush and deeply orchestral, swelling and powerful,” labeling it among the most noteworthy releases in the band’s illustrious career.

As we mourn his loss, fans and fellow musicians remember Perry Bamonte as a profoundly creative spirit whose calm presence and musical depth carved an indelible mark on one of Britain's most iconic bands.