Muslimgauze

There are many sites covering MUSLIMGAUZE and the projects of the late , lamented Bryn Jones. Here are some words as a mark of respect to him and also to Staalplaat / Soleilmoon who did (and still do) a first class job of presenting his legacy.

We wrote to Bryn in the summer of 1997 to see if he had any advice about setting up a label / vehicle to release independent music: we thought that he might know a thing or two, having worked with a number of labels. Plus, being into his 'stuff ' for years, we saw Bryn as a great example of pursuing your own musical goals without consideration for fashion or the opinions of the fickle music press. Alas , the inspiring words didn't materialise - instead we read his words of utter honesty - "I am the last person to ask !" - written in his characteristic scrawl.

We were lucky enough to witness one of the rare live UK outings. It was 1997 at The Duchess of York in Leeds - 'An evening of Muslimgauze and Celtarabia' --- The place was packed to the gills --- and the percussionists from Celtarabia added further force to the Muslimgauze set.

After the performance, when everyone had rushed to the bar to grab a last pint, we talked with Bryn about his future releases and projects. He seemed (obviously) exhausted but also distracted and pre-occupied--- with hindsight you wonder whether or not he was experiencing the first symptoms of the illness that led to his tragic passing.

Among the many critiques of Muslimgauze's vast output, a few have stated that all his material 'sounded the same' ..... er....well you could say that about classical music.....if you also had cloth ears! Ironic when you look at releases like the excellent "Azzazin" or "Vampire of Tehran" which were moving in altogether different directions. The Muslimgauze listener will always be wondering what Bryn would be producing today. There are bound to be some cynics who read this page, but it's just our small gesture of admiration to this unique and influential Manchester lad.

"...wa alekum Salaam..."

BEWARE OF IMITATIONS!