Dave Rosser, Afghan Whigs guitarist, RIP

Dave Rosser, an incredibly talented musician, exemplary human being, and pillar of the New Orleans music community, died last night surrounded by love in New Orleans.

He was diagnosed last year with inoperable colon cancer. Rosser was a guitarist with the Afghan Whigs and also brought his sublime playing to the Twilight Singers, My Jerusalem, Gutter Twins, and Mark Lanegan’s solo albums. Having grown up in north Alabama, a vintage southern sound subtly permeated his unique playing style. When I asked about this, he said he drew constant inspiration from the great pedal steel players like Buddy Emmons — “the Eddie Van Halen of pedal steel,” as Dave called him — and tried to emulate that phrasing and tone on his electric guitar.

Dave was a gentleman, funnyman, and guitar virtuoso. I feel fortunate to have known him even just a little bit. My deepest sympathy goes out to all of Dave’s family, friends, and fans.