Peter Gutteridge, a man considered a hero of New Zealand music and a linchpin of that nation’s famed “Dunedin sound” through his roles in The Clean, The Chills, The Great Unwashed, Snapper and more, died earlier today, according to New Zealand music journalist Simon Sweetman and the Flying Nun Records.
Sweetman, in posting the news, wrote, “Gutteridge was something of an underground hero, so important to people in love with so much around what New Zealand music means and does and sounds like – that music that’s a vital part of our culture outside and away from the mainstream.”
Flying Nun announced the following this evening:
We are greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Peter Gutteridge today.
Peter was a Flying Nun original, a founding member of The Clean, The Chills and of course his own brilliant band Snapper. A great talent, he was also member of the Great Unwashed, involved in many Dunedin bands and went on to release beautiful solo material across the years.
All of us, and so many people around the world, have been touched and effected by his music, whether it be the swirling fuzz of the guitar or haunting piano melodies, Peter was a true hero of New Zealand music, and will deeply missed.
Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends at this very sad time.
Thank you Peter for all the music, may you rest in peace.
I find it interesting that the passing of Primal Scream’s Throb was not covered on this site last week.