Jon Brookes of The Charlatans dies at 44

TORONTO — Jon Brookes, drummer for The Charlatans, lost his battle with brain cancer Tuesday. He was 44.

According to a message on the band’s website, the musician died in hospital surrounded by family members.

Brookes was diagnosed with brain cancer after suffering a seizure and collapsing on stage in Philadelphia in 2010.

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“He was much loved by those who knew him and regarded as one of the finest drummers of his generation,” read the message, “and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”

Charlatans singer Tim Burgess tweeted: “Jon Brookes, my friend, our drummer and inspiration to so many, passed away this morning. We are torn apart.”

Brookes was a founding member of The Charlatans in 1989. He was temporarily replaced by Peer Salisbury of The Verve following his seizure.

The band recently started work on a new album.