Razorback on drummer Brian Velasco: We lost our brother

MANILA, Philippines — Rock band Razorback on Wednesday afternoon confirmed the death of drummer Brian Velasco, who reportedly died earlier in the day.

"Today we lost our brother....and our hearts are broken.....we love you and we will always miss you Bri," the band said on its Facebook page.

Razorback, who last had a gig in December, debuted in 1995 with the album "Hebigat Sounds, Vol. 1" followed by "Beggar’s Moon" in 1997. Velasco joined the band in 1996.

Velasco, who died by suicide earlier on Wednesday, was a top trending topic on Twitter, with social media users expressing condolences to his family and friends as well as reminiscing on the band and its music.

One user shared: “Many presentations, many pitch decks, and a lot of work from where I sit in were written with Razorback and Wolfgang playing in the background.”

Many presentations, many pitch decks, and a lot of work from where I sit in were written with Razorback and Wolfgang playing in the background.

This news hits hard.

— Reverend Sparkjoy (@marocharim) January 16, 2019

Another tweeted, “I’ve watched them live so many times, Razorback has always been my favorite local band.” 

I've watched them live so many times.

Razorback has always been my fave local band.

Brian was simply one of the best drummers around.

May your soul rest in peace. ????

My deepest sympathies to your love ones... https://t.co/NhzPMiJ9Fa

— Kit Ian A M (@ianmauz22) January 16, 2019

Another fan tweeted that Velasco was "one of the best drummers on the Filipino rock scene."

He said, "I've always watched you guys perform when I'd be at the Rarakan Festival or Dutdutan expo. Such a shame you took your own lief. Rest in peace sir."

One of the best drummers on the Filipino Rock scene, I've always watched you guys perform when I'd be at the Rakrakan Festival or Dutdutan expo. Such a shame you took your own life. Rest in Peace sir Brian Velasco. pic.twitter.com/x8dfII5FWf

— 6etco (@Dartagnan_BETCO) January 16, 2019

Arete Meque tweeted that Razorback gigs would "rock the devil out of you" and said we "lost a great musician today."

RIP our big brother in rock Brian Velasco. I've watched Razorback a couple of times and they'll simply rock the devil out of you. As a drummer, Brian doesn't dominate their songs, but he's smooth like silk, groovy, and precise. We've lost a great musician today. #respect

— Arete Mequi (@aretemequi) January 16, 2019

Velasco's name trended on Twitter on Wednesday afternoon. 

While some took the time to remember Razorback's music, other netizens were talking about his death and expressed sympathy with Velasco's family.

In memory of Velasco, music channel MYX tweeted a throwback performance and lines from Razorback song "Wakasan" 

Sa dulo ng mundo, doon magtatagpo
Ang 'yong kaluluwa at ang lumikha
Lahat ng gusto mong malaman sa kanya
Maisasagot rin niya

Rest in peace, Brian Velasco. pic.twitter.com/HZQearPLo4

— MYX Philippines (@MYXphilippines) January 16, 2019

Velasco's family has yet to issue a statement on his death.

The HOPELINE Project is a 24/7 service for depression and suicide prevention.

They can be reached at the following numbers: 

(02) 804-HOPE (4673)
0917 558 HOPE (4673)
2919 (toll-free number for all GLOBE and TM subscribers)