Jeff Hanson, RIP (1978-2009)

DOWNLOAD: Jeff Hanson – Hiding Behind the Moon (MP3)

Jeff Hanson 1978-2009

We are deeply shocked and saddened to report that Kill Rock Stars artist Jeff Hanson passed away on June 5, 2009 in his home, a victim of a terrible accident. Jeff has been a part of the KRS family since 2003 when he became the first artist signed to the label from an unsolicited demo.

Jeff Hanson was an amazing artist, a riotously funny person, and a good friend. Everyone at Kill Rock Stars feels that we were privileged to put out his records. We will miss him tremendously. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.
–Kill Rock Stars

According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Hanson “likely died from a fall or other accident at the concrete-floored apartment, which he had just moved into days earlier, said his sister, Sara Hanson”. Sara Hanson also pointed out that “her brother never had any trouble with substance abuse”.

This is so sad. The first time I ever saw Jeff play was at the Knitting Factory in NYC in May of 2003. I actually went to the show to see Jeff, but stayed to see his new label-mates The Decemberists. It was their first-ever NYC show. It was probably his first NYC show too. I’ve continued to follow both of them since. Jeff’s most recent album, Madam Owl, was released on Kill Rock Stars in 2008.

Two things that usually come to mind when first listening to Jeff’s music: his female-sounding voice, and the similarities to his label-mate Elliott Smith. Jeff was just 31 when he died. Elliott was 34. Past Jeff posts HERE. Videos below….