Iconic Rock Producer Steve Albini Dead at 61

The rock world suffered a major blow today, as a report from Pitchfork confirms the death of legendary producer and musician Steve Albini. He was 61 years old.

According to staff at his recording studio Electronic Audio, Albini died of a heart attack. Recently, he’d been getting ready to tour with Shellac in support of the forthcoming release of their first new album in 10 years, To All Trains.

For those unfamiliar with Albini and his body of work, he became a major player in the indie rock scene from both sides of the mixing console. As a musician, he fronted both Shellac and Big Black. As a producer, his credits include work with bands like Nirvana, Pixies, PJ Harvey, The Jesus Lizard, Neurosis, Liturgy, Sunn O))), and a long, long line of other rock and metal artists.

In addition to those accolades and accomplishments, Albini regularly spoke out against the often extremely exploitative nature of the music industry, standing up for artists and calling out how corporate music festivals had become over the years, among other topics.

Our hearts go out to Albini’s friends, family, and band mates at this time.