Taylor Kirk, the creative force behind the musical project Timber Timbre, has passed away at the age of 44. A spokesperson for Kirk confirmed to CBC Music that the artist passed away unexpectedly on April 14. Expressing deep sorrow, the representative shared, “We are devastated by the profound loss of Taylor, and his memory will be cherished through the music he has left for us.”
Kirk established Timber Timbre in 2005, introducing his unique folk-noir sound to the world with the release of his debut album, “Medicinals,” in 2007. The third self-titled album from Timber Timbre made it to the longlist for the 2009 Polaris Music Prize, while the subsequent album, “Creep on Creepin’ On,” secured a spot on the prize’s shortlist in 2011.
The music of Timber Timbre found its way into various films and TV series, such as “Breaking Bad,” “Russian Doll,” and Sarah Polley’s “Stories We Tell.” Describing the band’s music, NPR Music praised Taylor Kirk as a crooner with a subtly enchanting voice, crafting haunting and atmospheric songs that evoke imagery of secluded woods at night.
Renowned for its atmospheric quality, Timber Timbre’s music has been likened to soundtracks fitting for a David Lynch movie or the unsettling ambiance of HBO’s “True Detective.” Notably, Kirk’s most recent album under Timber Timbre, “Lovage,” released in 2023, marked his seventh studio album.