Viola Beach played last UK gig in Leamington before Sweden crash

Band members Jack Dakin, 27, Kris Leonard, 19, Tomas Lowe, 23, and River Reeves, 19, along with their manager Craig Tarry, 32, all died after the car they were travelling in careered over 25m off a bridge into a canal during the early hours of the morning.

The Warrington band had just played their first show outside the UK at Where’s The Music Festival in Norrkoping, and were due to play in Guildford next.

Before their show in Sweden, Viola Beach played a sell-out show alongside Blossoms and The Vryll Society at the Zephyr Lounge on Thursday February 11.

Zephyr Lounge released a statement on its Facebook page following the news. It read: “We are deeply saddened at the loss of Viola Beach and their manager. Talented young men whose infectious energy and excitement for what they do made them an absolute joy to work with.

“Our sincerest condolences to the band’s families, friends and fans.”

Blossoms also paid tribute to the band. They said: “Absolutely devastated for the loss of Viola Beach and Craig Tarry. Such genuine, lovely lads. Our thoughts are with their friends and families.”

The car fell through a gap in the bridge it was travelling on which opened to allow a boat to pass through below. Barriers were up and warning lights were on at the time, showing drivers that it was unsafe to pass.

Swedish authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the crash.

Viola Beach were influenced by bands such as The Beatles, The Coral and The Zutons, and played their first gig at the Cavern Club in Liverpool. They also made an appearance at Reading and Leeds Festival last year.