Thank you for acknowledging Martin's passing, Alec, and for sharing the link to Pink Frost - one of the greatest recordings to ever be committed to 7" vinyl.I live in Dunedin, Martin's home town, and loved his music dearly. I met and chatted with him a couple of times - he was a really nice person. Desperately sad that he should leave us so suddenly, and so (relatively) young, but his music will live on forever. RIP Martin.
Glad you've managed to catch David playing live. He doesn't play much these days but it's usually an event when he does. I've seen him a number of times over the years (only once with The Clean) and they've always been memorable gigs. As for Hamish... well you've heard the sad news... I've never really investigated his solo material, although I know I ought to. I think he was in New York most of the time after I moved to New Zealand, so only caught him once with The Clean, until he moved back to NZ a few years ago. He popped up in Dunedin a few times and I attach a couple of images (he's playing with my friend Darren from The Verlaines in the bad photo). I saw him a couple of times I think - he was trying to organise 'happenings' but it was all a bit erratic and random, and things didn't seem to take off. I only spoke to him once but he was convinced he knew me. He seems to have been a gentle soul who experienced some health issues towards the end of his life, and chose to leave on his own terms. He is, of course, very fondly remembered around these parts.I'll go to Martin's funeral on Friday - it's been 'upgraded' to part of the Town Hall complex, because of the expected numbers in attendance. Some local luminaries will be paying tribute. I'm sure it will be a fitting farewell, and I'm sure a few more tears will be shed. Listening to The Chills again tonight, and marvelling at Martin's creativity. He knew no songwriting boundaries, yet still managed to craft perfect pop songs.
Thank you for acknowledging Martin's passing, Alec, and for sharing the link to Pink Frost - one of the greatest recordings to ever be committed to 7" vinyl. I live in Dunedin, Martin's home town, and loved his music dearly. I met and chatted with him a couple of times - he was a really nice person. Desperately sad that he should leave us so suddenly, and so (relatively) young, but his music will live on forever. RIP Martin.