Died yesterday at the age of 48, the singer of Slits, Ariane Forster or Ari Up as she was known. The news were confirmed by John Lydon, who is married to her mother Nora, on his personal website. According to the announcement Ari Up died from severe disease (probably cancer):
«John and Nora have asked us to let everyone know that Nora's daughter Arianna (aka Ari-Up) died today
(Wednesday, October 20th) after a serious illness. She will be sadly missed.
Everyone at JohnLydon.com and PiLofficial.Com would like to pass on their heartfelt condolences to John, Nora and
family.
Rest in Peace. »
The Slits was a the most influential women' s groups that sprang from the British punk scene in late 70's, with a unique sound that combined songs in punk and reggae rhythms. Ari Up was just 14 when in 1976 she formed the band along with Palmolive, the drummer. Disbanded in 1982 after having released 2 albums, the "Cut" of 1979 (the album containing the famous "Typical Girls" and "Shoplifting" ) and "Return of the Giant Slits" 1981.
In 2006, Ari Up, along with original bassist Tessa Pollitt re-formed the band. They released the EP "Revenge of the Killer Slits" the same year and the album "Trapped Animal" in 2009.
In 2005, Ari Up released her first solo album, "Dread More Dan Dead".
Just last May we were fortunate to see the Slits for the first time live in our country in the Rodeo Club.
Listen to the interview of Tessa Pollitt to D. Antonopoulos last May here and here's the "Typical Girls" from this year's Primavera Festival and their latest video "Lazy Slam" from the "Trapped Animal".
The Slits - Typical girls @ Primavera Sound 2010
The Slits - Lazy Slam
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