Connor Verner Oakley, guitarist of Brisbane post-hardcore band Awaken I Am has passed away. The band took to Facebook early this morning to share that Oakley had passed away in a “tragic accident”.

The band shared in the post that they would continue in order to fulfil Connor’s passion and “make him proud by keeping it alive”.

The entire post reads:

“Our heart is broken, we have lost our beautiful brother Connor in a tragic accident.

Connor was family, our little brother and an irreplaceable part of what makes us a band. It’s hard to explain the bond between band members, we spent so much time together making music, playing shows, experiencing new cultures and most importantly laughing.

To have lost him is completely devastating, he brought so much light and love to the band with his positive attitude, passion for music and his cheeky grin.

As broken as we feel, to not continue is not an option. Music was Connor’s dream, we shared that dream with him and we hope to make him proud by keeping that dream alive. Dissolution was the last track we had the privilege of recording with Connor, he was so proud of it.

We love you brother, we will never stop missing you.”

Tributes for the young musician have poured out over social media, with many praising his impeccable musical abilities and kindness.

Please read the message below from @AwakenIAm on the untimely death of Connor Verner-Oakley. Celebrate his life through the incredible music he made.https://t.co/unc9zXGysV pic.twitter.com/k1viHyKj6h

— Victory Records (@victoryrecords) May 16, 2018

sending positivity your way, i’m so sorry for your loss ??

— Alex Dorame (@AlexD0rame) May 16, 2018

Omg I'm sooo sorry my thoughts and prayers are with you always I'm soooo terribly sorry for your loss??????

— JohnnieGuilbertFanGirl#TDDWP (@JohlexFanGirl) May 16, 2018

My heart is heavy for you. Much love, respect, and positivity in trying to continue your journey. ??

— RiffRipper (@aaron_ditd) May 16, 2018

R.I.P. Connor ??

— Steph ????????? (@waticandsav) May 16, 2018

Awaken I Am were currently on tour of Australia with US band Secrets, and spent the first part of 2017 touring the US with I Set My Friends On Fire. The band released the full-length album Blind Love to widespread critical acclaim last year and were set to support Escape The Fate on their Australian tour later this year.

Celebrate Connor’s life and listen to the band’s track ‘Dissolution’ below:

The article was originally published on Don't Bore Us