It is with deep regret that we share with you the news of Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa’s passing. Espinosa was a co-founding member of LA-based jamband Ozomatli. Over the past two years Espinosa endured a long and painful battle against cancer that sadly came to an end on Wednesday morning. A message posted to the Ozomatli Twitter and Facebook pages reads:

“We’re saddened to hear that Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa passed away today. He’ll forever be in our hearts. We’ll keep you posted on funeral arrangements. Please keep his family in your thoughts."

Last month, friends of Espinosa rallied together to put on a fundraiser at the California Institute of The Arts, entitled “Crunchyfest,” to help with his medical expenses. In the past, Espinosa has leant his musical gifts to session work with artists as The Black Eyed Peas, Blackalicous and Money Mark, along with many more. Espinosa joined the band Ozomatli in 1996 and offered up his parents’ garage as the band’s first rehearsal space. He will be remembered as an incredible multi-instrumentalist, father, husband, brother, son and friend. RIP Crunchy.