The post-hardcore and emo community is mourning the loss of Zack Roach, the American musician best known for his tenure with Senses Fail between 2009 and 2016, as well as his work in projects such as Team Tremolo and Spirit of the Stairs.
The news was shared on June 13 by family members, friends, and Senses Fail vocalist Buddy Nielsen, who posted a video honoring a musician who played a significant role during one of the band's most important creative periods.
“Yesterday, Zack Roach, who played guitar for Senses Fail from like 2009 until about 2016, was a part of the Renacer era and Pull The Thorns From Your Heart — wrote a lot of the songs on those two records — and yeah, he passed away. So super sad, sending love out to his family. He had two children. Just super sad to hear it and send good vibes their way.”
During his years with Senses Fail, Roach contributed as a guitarist, bassist, backing vocalist, and songwriter. His influence was particularly notable on Renacer (2013) and Pull The Thorns From Your Heart (2015), two albums that represented an important artistic evolution for the band.
Nielsen later expanded his tribute in the caption accompanying the video.
“We lost one of the most talented and kindest people I have ever known. RIP to Zack. He was also one of the most hilarious people, so I'm sure he's laughing at me tagging his Instagram account. I love you. Please say hi to my Mom; she always loved you so much. Sending love out to his children and to Shaila.”
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed at this time.
Following the announcement, friends and family launched a support campaign to assist his wife Shaila Roach, their children Cain and Ramsey, and Shaila's mother Bobbie.
Beyond his work with Senses Fail, Roach was widely respected throughout the independent music community in Wichita, Kansas, where he built a reputation as a versatile musician, creative songwriter, and trusted collaborator.
