Vali Sepi, 'Goat Master' of Romanian Band Phoenix, Dies at 80

Vali Sepi, a significant creative force behind the iconic Romanian rock band Phoenix, has passed away at the age of 80. His death was announced by Dr. Dorel Săndesc, manager of Timișoara County Hospital, who remembered Sepi as "a force of nature and art" and a close friend of band leader Nicu Covaci.

Sepi was more than just a percussionist for Phoenix; he was instrumental in shaping the band's visual identity during the 1970s. His innovative stage concepts and self-made instruments, including the famous "goat" percussion pieces, became synonymous with the band's ethno-rock phase. This unique artistic contribution helped Phoenix forge an original sound and visual style, particularly during a period when Western influences were restricted by the communist regime.

Beyond his musical contributions, Sepi considered himself primarily a visual artist. His work spanned painting, drawing, sculpture, and design, with exhibitions held internationally. He lived for an extended period in Singapore, further broadening his artistic horizons. Dr. Săndesc shared that Sepi passed away peacefully, fulfilling his wish to be taken "suddenly, without pain."

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Cu sufletul îndurerat anunț plecarea dintre noi în această dimineață a celui ce a fost și va rămâne marele Vali Sepi. O forță a naturii și a artei, membru al trupei Phoenix, prieten bun al lui Nicu Covaci, artist plastic de renume internațional, cetățean și aventurier al lumii, Vali Sepi a plecat așa cum s-a rugat: «să mă ia Dumnezeu la El brusc, fără durere».