We're very unhappy to report that Charlie Cooper from the electronica act Telefon Tel Aviv has died.

The band (who we were talking to arrange a feature) have recently recorded an excellent electro pop/synthgaze album Immolate Yourself for progressive German techno label bPitch.

A message on MySpace from his musical partner Joshua Eustis says: "Hello, Everyone.

It breaks my heart to inform you all that Charlie Cooper, my better half in Telefon Tel Aviv, passed away on January 22nd.

We have been friends since high school, and began making records together a decade ago. We have been so fortunate to tour the world together, while at the same time having a massive amount of laughs at one another's expense.

Aside from Charlie's singular genius and musical gifts, I can tell you that he was a total sweetheart of a guy, and a loving friend and confidant to people everywhere. His musicianship was surpassed only by his greater gift to the world - his warmth, his generosity, his unquenchable humor, and his undying loyalty to those whom he loved. In the spirit of honorable mention, however, I should mention that he had a shoe collection that was marvelous, knowledge of hip-hop that was profound, and knowledge of wine that was subtle.

He is survived by a sister, a neice, a nephew, his mother, his stepfather, me, and more adoring friends than the Universe has dark matter. As such, his family and I ask for your discretion and consideration of our privacy during these extremely turbulent waters."

The Quietus will be publishing a review of their excellent album Immolate Yourself soon. In the meantime you can check out music at their MySpace.