[Source: NME.com] Former Wilco band member Jay Bennett has died aged 45.

The multi-instrumentalist died in his Illinois home on Saturday 23 May, although the cause of death has not been revealed. A message on the website of his record label Undertow Music, Undertowmusic.com, explained that he died “in his sleep”.

Bennett played with Wilco from 1994 to 2001, leaving the Americana band because of a fall-out with band leader Jeff Tweedy.

Earlier this month he sued the band for AUS$64,000, claiming he was owed royalties for albums he worked on while in the band.

As well as his work with Wilco Bennett was a session musician, playing with artists including Sheryl Crow.