At The Gates frontman Tomas Lindberg has died aged 52.
The Swedish heavy metal star had battled adenoid cystic carcinoma – cancer of the mouth and pallet – since 2023, and passed away on Tuesday morning (16.09.25) from “complications” to his treatment.
A statement on the band’s Facebook page read: “Tomas passed away this morning following complications related to his ongoing cancer treatment.
Despite intensive medical efforts, his life could not be saved.
Tomas – You were an inspiration to us all. A true friend, both compassionate sympathetic. You will always be remembered for your generosity and your creative spirit.
You will be eternally missed.
Forever in our hearts.”
Tributes have flooded in for Tomas from the metal world.
Arch Enemy guitarist Michael Amott wrote on Instagram: “I first met him when he was 15 and I was 18 — just two kids completely dedicated to underground music. Life took us in different directions, but we’d bump into each other from time to time. Reconnecting properly in 2019 when we toured together was really special. Today we’ve lost one of the true OGs of the Swedish death metal scene — first with GROTESQUE, and of course later with the legendary AT THE GATES. Safe travels, Tompa… have a beer with LG and chill now.”
Fellow Swede metaller Mikael Åkerfeldt, frontman of Opeth, penned a lengthy tribute about the “pioneering” musician: “It’s with overpowering shock that I write this, having just received the news that he has passed on.
“I first met with Tomas in the early 90’s when Opeth had a show (our second show ever) in Gothenbourg. Appearing on the bill was ourselves, Therion and an minor arsenal of unknown bands Also appearing was a band with a curious name, At the gates.
“We’d made our way from Stockholm to be greeted at the GBG central station by none other than Tomas Lindberg himself. He looked ragged and…untamed? Long frizzy blonde hair, huge blonde/ginger beard. An intimidating character in appearance, yet incredibly kind and welcoming in person.
“At the gates blew my mind that night. As a frontman, Tomas was just beyond anything I’d seen. He was awesome, plain and simple. Wild! He appeared so immersed in the music that it seemed to take utter and complete control of him. It was a joy to see (and hear).
“We’d run into each other now and then over the years. Intellectually, he seemed to be a step above and beyond your generic metal musician. You could talk to Tomas about anything. Perhaps his job as a teacher played a role, I don’t know, but he had a keen ear to whatever topic was brought up.
“I can’t believe that he’s gone….
“Tomas, my friend. You were a pioneering musician. A fantastic frontman and singer. A lovely human being! You’ve always had my endless respect. A respect that will flow effortlessly, even now that you’re no longer with us. (sic)”
Metalcore outfit Unearth wrote: “RIP Tomas Lindberg. Without him and At The Gates, metal would not sound the same. His influence on heavy music is timeless, shaping the NWOAHM and metalcore we play today. Unearth is forever grateful. Condolences to his bandmates, friends and family.”
As well as At The Gates, which Tomas co-founded with guitarist Alf Svensson in Gothenburg in 1990, following the split of their previous band Grotesque, the singer was a member of Disfear, Skitsystem, and Lock Up.
At The Gates’ last studio album was 2021’s The Nightmare of Being, though multiple reports stated he had recorded vocals for a follow-up before his death.