Luis Vasquez, the creator behind the post-punk/darkwave project The Soft Moon, has passed away at the age of 44, along with two other individuals at a private residence. The news was first shared on The Soft Moon’s official Instagram account, expressing deep sorrow and condolences to Vasquez’s family and the extended music community.
The other two victims were identified as John “Juan” Mendez, a well-known Los Angeles techno DJ also recognized as Silent Servant, and his partner Simone Ling. The Los Angeles County coroner has not confirmed the cause of these unexpected deaths, leaving fans and followers in mourning.
Vasquez, born in Los Angeles, initially found his musical roots playing in punk bands during his teenage years. He later moved to the Bay Area, where he founded The Soft Moon as a one-man post-punk project. Vasquez’s impact on the music scene was profound, with a discography that includes the self-titled debut album in 2010, followed by Zeros (2012), Deeper (2015), Criminal (2018), and his latest offering, Exister (2022).
Sacred Bones, Vasquez’s current label, memorialized the artist as “one of a kind, with a heart of gold,” emphasizing the positive impact he had on everyone he encountered. Vasquez’s journey in music was influenced by his Afro-Cuban heritage, contributing to the unique sound and style that defined The Soft Moon.
Fans worldwide are sharing memories and tributes, reflecting on the profound impact Vasquez had on their lives. The Soft Moon’s significant presence in the post-punk and darkwave genres further solidifies Vasquez’s legacy in the music industry.
Details about funeral and memorial arrangements remain undisclosed. The void left by Vasquez’s untimely departure is felt deeply by fans, friends, and the broader music family, as they remember the musician who left an indelible mark on the world of post-punk.
