55-year-old Musician Rick Froberg from San Diego-based band Drive Like Jehu passes away

Veteran San Diego musician and artist Eric "Rick" Froberg dies at 55.

Eric "Rick" Froberg, a beloved San Diego musician and visual artist, has passed away at the age of 55, as confirmed by his bandmate. Froberg was widely known for his role as the guitarist and lead vocalist in the band Drive Like Jehu. According to guitarist John Reis, Froberg's death was sudden and caused by natural causes. In a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, Reis expressed his admiration for Froberg's artistry and his deep love for his friends. Froberg's creativity, vision, and ability to bring beauty into the world will be forever remembered.

Froberg, who had been a resident of Encinitas for a long time, was born in Los Angeles and collaborated with Reis in various San Diego-based bands such as Pitchfork and Hot Snakes. Additionally, he played with Last of the Juanitas, Thingy, and Obits. The Los Angeles Times recognized Froberg for his contribution in popularizing the complex and distorted sound of math rock.

Aside from his musical talents, Froberg was also a skilled visual artist and illustrator. He created album art, promotional artwork, and merchandise designs for all of his bands, as well as for Rocket from the Crypt, Reis' band, and Swami Records label. In 2022, the Trash Lamb Gallery in San Diego's South Park neighborhood showcased an exhibition of Froberg's posters, which he had created for the underground music scene in the area. The exhibition, titled "Let My People Go: Art and Illustration 1988 to Present," celebrated Froberg's artistic journey.

Froberg was known by various pseudonyms, including Rick Fork and Rick Farr, and contributed to over 20 albums throughout his career. His most recent completed album, "Jericho Sirens," was released in 2018 with Hot Snakes. Although his band Obits disbanded in 2015, they released a live album titled "Die At the Zoo" in 2021, which was recorded during their 2012 tour in Brisbane, Australia.

Just two weeks before his passing, Froberg took to Instagram to share several new photos of himself and excitedly announced that Hot Snakes was working on a new record, which was nearing completion. His dedication to his craft and his passion for creating music and art will be deeply missed by fans and the music community alike.

In conclusion, Eric "Rick" Froberg's sudden passing has left a void in the San Diego music scene. His contributions as a musician and visual artist will be remembered for their impact and the beauty they brought into the world. Froberg's legacy will live on through his art, his music, and the memories he created with his friends and fans.

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