Minders, Thermals Member Joel Burrows Dies

Sad news to report today as Joel Burrows, a fixture on the Portland, Ore., music scene and a former member of the Thermals, the Minders and several other local bands, has died, reports the Portland Mercury. Burrows was severely injured early last year when he was struck by a van while crossing the street. After spending months in the ICU, he recovered some and moved to an assisted-living facility for people with brain injuries.

Burrows played drums with a the Elephant Six Collective-associated act the Minders starting in 2003 and guitar with the Thermals in 2007. Earlier this year, Wild Flag drummer Janet Weiss organized a benefit show for Burrows called Songs for Joel that included performances from Isaac Brock of Modest Mouse, Britt Daniel of Spoon, former Sleater-Kinney member Corin Tucker and more.

"He fought bravely for his life for many months and made unforgettable contributions to Portland music," reads the Portland Mercury article. "Condolences to his family and friends. He will be dearly missed."

Watch Joel Burrows Perform 'Here's Your Future' With the Thermals