Drummer for legendary Aussie indie rock band The Scientists dies: ‘She was the beating heart’

The Australian music industry is in mourning after news emerged, this week that seminal percussionist Leanne Cowie has died.

Leanne was the drummer for legendary Aussie post-punk outfit The Scientists. 

Scientists frontman Kim Salmon broke the news to fans on Facebook on Friday, paying a heartfelt tribute to his late bandmate.

‘Leanne Chock neé Cowie, the beating heart of the Scientists since 1985 no longer beats in this world but will forever live in mine and my fellow Scientists hearts,’ Kim wrote.

‘I’ve known her since this time in 1984 and she has, since then been so much more than a bandmate.’

Continuing, Kim revealed that Leanne’s passing had ‘devastated’ him.

‘She’s remained one of my very very closest friends since and I’m devastated by her passing,’ he shared.

‘My deepest condolences to her family and the huge network of people that were lucky enough to be her friend.’

The sweet tribute was met with a flurry of condolences from friends and fans.

‘Very sad news to wake up to this morning, so sorry for your loss Kim,’ one fan offered.

‘Last time I saw you together was when you played solo at the Red House last May. Such a lovely human.’

Another was full of praise for Leanne, and her ‘unique’ drumming style.

‘Leanne, a national treasure!!!!! An incendiary, unique drummer,’ they wrote. ‘Her beats so solid. So strong!!’

 Singer songwriter Penny Ikinger also paid tribute to the musician, remembering her as a ‘trailblazer.’

Leanne was the drummer for legendary Aussie post-punk outfit The Scientists

‘Sending you all my love and my deepest condolences Kim,’ Ikinger shared.

‘What a trailblazer she was! Like you, she had so much style in everything she did.

‘Thank you for your support of so many female musicians whose talents might not have been under the spotlight if not for you. R.I.P. Leanne.’

US musician Jerry Teel also paid tribute to the drummer admitting that while he never interacted with Leanne, he was constantly impressed with her skills behind the kit.   

‘I’m so sorry to hear this Kim,’ the former Honeymoon Killers guitarist began.

‘I never really talked to her, unfortunately, but when I saw her playing with you guys on stage, she had such a steady and focused presence with no need to be flashy, like someone you could count on to be there when you needed them. 

‘That is what makes a band great and that is what makes a friendship real. Sending love your way.’

The Scientists formed in Perth back in 1978, with Leanne first joining the ‘family’ as the band’s tour manager in 1984. 

Scientists frontman Kim Salmon broke the news to fans on Facebook on Friday, paying a heartfelt tribute to his late bandmate

‘Leanne Chock neé Cowie, the beating heart of the Scientists since 1985 no longer beats in this world but will forever live in mine and my fellow Scientists hearts,’ Kim wrote

She eventually took over drumming duties in 1985 from Brett Rixon.

She remained the band’s drummer until they disbanded in the late 1980s.

Leanne rejoined a reunited Scientists in 2006 after. they were invited by Seattle rockers Mudhoney to play at the All Tomorrow’s Parties festival in the UK.

The band then released their eighth studio album Negativity, with Leanne on the kit in 2021 and toured extensively throughout Australia and Europe promoting the album.