Italian experimental DJ and producer Manuel Fogliata, FKA Nuel, has died aged 45

Italian experimental DJ and producer Manuel Fogliata has died, aged 45.

Known for his work under the moniker Nuel, Fogliata's passing was confirmed by friend Donato Dozzy via an Instagram post on Saturday (May 31).

"I’m saddened to announce that my friend Manuel Fogliata FKA Nuel has died," Dozzy wrote. "Companion of many sonic adventures, he left this crazy world in a blink of an eye. My deep condolences to his family and friends."

Born and raised in Rimini, Northern Italy, Fogliata started producing music at 18 inspired by trip hop, IDM, jungle and breakbeats of the early '90s.

Throughout the '00s, Fogliata became a seminal figure within Italy's experimental IDM scene under his Nuel project, with releases on Apollo, Further Records, Midgar, Kontra-Musik, Northern Electronics and Aquaplano — the techno-focused imprint he formed alongside Dozzy.

Alongside his solo work, Fogliata was also known for his regular collaborations with Dozzy and Touane, AKA Marco Tonni, under the outfits Grand Theft Auto, The Thrillers and Aquaplano.

In recent years Fogliata had quit DJing due to suffering from tinnitus, abandoning his Nuel pseudonym and working on a live, ambient project under his own name.

In April, he undertook a residency at Norwegian music school Folkemusikksenteret I Buskerud in collaboration with Monument Festival – the team paid tribute to Fogliata via an Instagram post, writing: "We are heartbroken to share the news of Manuel’s passing."

"In April, we were fortunate to spend time with Manuel here in Norway. He visited us, spending beautiful days with the Monument crew, sharing his music, conversations, smile, and spirit. During his trip he travelled to Sigdal Folk Music Center, the very heart of Norwegian folk music."

"There, he spent a week exploring, listening, and implementing ancient music into his work preparing a unique opening set for Monument Festival. We were truly honored to have him here in Norway and Manuel shared his love for music and life."

"Our deepest sympathies go out to Manuel’s family, friends, and everyone whose lives were enriched by his sound and energy, Rest in peace, dear friend."

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, follow her on Twitter