AT THE GATES Frontman Tomas “Tompa” Lindberg Dies at 52


Swedish death metal legend Tomas “Tompa” Lindberg, frontman of At The Gates, has tragically passed away at the age of 52. Lindberg succumbed to complications related to adenoid cystic carcinoma, a rare form of cancer affecting the mouth and palate, after a long and courageous battle.

Diagnosed in December 2023, Lindberg underwent major surgery which included removal of a significant portion of the roof of his mouth, followed by radiation treatment. Despite aggressive medical efforts, remaining cancer proved inoperable or inaccessible by surgery or radiation, and he passed away this morning.

Lindberg was a foundational figure in the Swedish metal scene, co-founding At The Gates in 1990 and helping to define the melodic death metal sound with landmark releases such as Slaughter of the Soul. Over his more than three decades in music, he also contributed to influential projects such as Grotesque, Disfear, Skitsystem, Lock Up, and The Crown. His unique vocal delivery, lyrical depth, and stage presence left a massive legacy in extreme music.

He had completed vocals for At The Gates’ next album prior to his major surgery, a final artistic statement that fans will be waiting to hear. Today, the metal community mourns a visionary, a mentor, and a voice that will echo in the genre forever. Lindberg’s kindness, creativity, and uncompromising artistry ensured he touched countless lives through both music and human connection.

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