Polaris Guitarist Ryan Siew Dies, Aged 26

Image: Instagram / @polarisaus)

Sydney metalcore band are mourning the loss of band mate, lead guitarist Ryan Siew who passed away Monday 19 June aged just 26.

The band confirmed the news via social media this week:

“It is with shattered hearts and the deepest sorrow that we tell you our dear brother and bandmate Ryan Siew passed away on the morning of Monday, June 19,” the post said.

“He was 26 years old, and for 10 incredible years, he was our best friend and artistic soulmate.

“Those years will never be enough. He was kind-hearted and clever, he was funny and brave and creative, and he was talented beyond all measure.

“Ryan, we will love and miss you for the rest of our days, and we will never fill the hole that you leave in all of our lives.”

Polaris had previously cancelled the remainder of their current European tour, citing a “serious personal crisis” within the band. Ryan’s cause of death has not been revealed.

Polaris release their third full-length album ‘Fatalism’ on 1 September and embark on an Australian tour the following week. No comment has been made as to how Ryan’s passing may affect these plans.

Formed in 2012, with Ryan, vocalist Jamie Hails, bassist/clean vocalist Jake Steinhauser and drummer Daniel Furnari Polaris are one of Australia’s premier metalcore outfits. They released their ARIA-nominated debut album ‘The Mortal Coil’ in 2017, followed by sophomore album ‘Death Of Me’ in 2020.

Their music and intense stage presence has earned Polaris a growing army of fans in Australia, Europe, the United States and beyond.

MADCAP Global Entertainment offers their sincere condolences to the extended Polaris family and Ryan’s family, wishing them the best at this difficult time.