John mayall: blues crusader

Strawbs co-founder Dave Cousins died in July following a long illness. The singer, songwriter and guitarist enjoyed an active musical career spanning more than six decades and has been name-checked by many musicians as a key influence and inspiration. We reflect on his rich legacy and reveal plans for a number of posthumous releases, including the long-awaited new Strawbs album.

MIKE TAYLOR was the most original voice in British jazz, a legend on the scene, an inspiration to Cream and the coming wave of prog. But his recordings are rare, his career curtailed by mental illness and a mysterious early death. New reissues of key works prove his genius, and remind peers and pals of their heartbreak. "The whole story is just so tragic," they tell ANDREW MALE.

Fondly remembered this month...

We bid farewell to Mick Ralphs, the highly innovative founding guitarist of Mott The Hoople and Bad Company

RICK DERRINGER, LONG revered as one of rock’s greatest guitarists, passed away at age 77 on May 26 at his home in Ormond Beach, Florida. Derringer first came to national prominence via the 1965 hit “H

I RECENTLY HAD the honor to pay tribute to the legendary Duane Eddy, the “Titan of Twang” who passed away on April 30, 2024, at age 86. Duane was a wonderful guy, and it’s testament to one’s life and