This is no way to start the New Year. From several reports all over the web comes sad news of the passing of
Evan Farrell. Farrell, who died Dec. 23rd of massive smoke inhalation during a house fire in Oakland CA, served as touring bassist for
Magnolia Electric Co., was a former member of
Rogue Wave, and a long time collaborator for the
Secretly Canadian collective
Japonize Elephants. Various reactions to his passing pretty much sum up the fact that Farrell was a damn good guy, who will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
From Magnolia Electric Co.
Evan was an incredible musician and a dear, dear friend. He was a member of Japonize Elephants, Rogue Wave, The Hollows, Mega Mousse, Kentucky Nightmare, and countless other projects and collaborations. He was funny, kind, generous, and supremely talented he will be missed terribly.
From Zach Rogue
If you ever saw Evan play music (with us or with the many other bands he has played with over the years), you would know he was an exceptional and passionate musician. And if you ever had the chance to hang out with him, you would have no doubt been laughing at some point, because he was one of the funniest and most charismatic people ever. Always the extravert, Evan was meant for the stage. Sometimes I almost felt he was from some other time, some other place.
He had more friends than anyone I know. They are all grieving right now, yet also trying to celebrate the life of someone who was so special to so many people.
From Secretly Canadian
We at Secretly Canadian have known and worked with Evan for over 10 years. He was a fixture in our community and a bright spot in all of our lives. He was exceptionally talented, funny and genuine. This can go on and on, because there is so much to say about Evan, but anyone who has come into contact with the man already understands all that can be said. Evan Farrell was a friend.
Evan is survived by his wife and two children. A
Memorial Fund has been set up to help his family through this time.
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Magnolia Electric Co. on MySpace
Rogue Wave on MySpace
