(NEXSTAR) – Tomas Lindberg, a Swedish musician who fronted the death metal group At the Gates, has died at 52.
His passing was announced in a statement posted by the band on Tuesday.
“Tomas passed away this morning following complications related to his ongoing cancer treatment. Despite intensive medical efforts, his life could not be saved,” the statement read. “Tomas — You were an inspiration to us all. A true friend, both compassionate & sympathetic. You will always be remembered for your generosity and your creative spirit.
“You will be eternally missed,” the statement concluded.
Lindberg, earlier this year, had revealed that he had been diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma in late 2023. He underwent surgery and radiation therapy, but “some remains of the cancer” were detected in early 2025, he said. Lindberg announced his intentions to “probably” undergo chemotherapy, but told fans that he had already recoded vocals for a yet-to-be-released eighth studio album.
The band had been waiting to release the album, just in case Lindberg had recovered and was able to tour, he said. They ultimately decided to move forward with the release after Lindberg’s more recent health setback.
Lindberg had been hospitalized since May, the band added.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare form of cancer that affects the head or neck, but “usually develops in the salivary glands,” according to the Cleveland Clinic. It’s thought to be caused by genetic mutations; smoking or alcohol are not known to be causes of ACC, the Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Research Foundation says.
Even after treatment, the risk of ACC retuning is “very real,” the foundation says, as patients with ACC can experience recurrences in other parts of the head, neck or body.
“ACC tumors grow slowly. But they can become aggressive and unpredictable over time,” the Cleveland Clinic notes.
At the Gates has released seven studio albums, their first being 1992’s “The Red in the Sky Ours,” and the latest being 2021’s “The Nightmare of Being.” Lindberg had also fronted several bands over the years, including punk band Disfear and the grindcore group Lock Up, which featured members of Napalm Death and Dimmu Borgir.