Mana "China" Nishiura, drummer for DMBQ and former drummer for Shonen Knife, passed away on November 4 when DMBQ's van was clipped by another vehicle and rolled over on I-95, near the Delaware Memorial Bridge. The band was on tour with An Albatross, and were on their way to the first of two shows they were to play in Brooklyn over the weekend. Todd Patrick, the promotor for both shows, wrote on his site that other members of the band and their tour manager, Michelle Cable, were still recovering: "Michelle Cable is conscious following surgery for a head injury. Shinji Masuko is still in the hospital but is expected to be released soon. Toru Matsui and Ryuichi Watanabe have been released from the hospital." He also wrote on November 6 that Cable, who is also editor of San Francisco noise zine Panache, will need extensive surgery for brain and spinal injuries. Nishiura, a native of Hiroshima, Japan, also played drums for Rashinban, Jesus Fever, Teem, Music Start Against Young Assault and Cel. She played her first live show with Shonen Knife in 2001, and left the band in 2004. Genghis Tron-run record label Lovepump United have set up a fund to help the band and Cable pay for their medical expenses. Paypal donations can be sent to the band by clicking here, and checks can be sent to Lovepump United, PO Box 3241, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. www.dmbq.net
