While most people will probably remember October 5, 2011 as the day Apple genius, Steve Jobs, passed away, another icon left our midst with very little fanfare. Bert Jansch, the legendary folk artist who influenced everyone from Paul Simon and Neil Young to Devendra Barnhart and Johnny Marr (of the Smiths), passed away after a long battle with cancer. Jansch is considered one of the lead figures in the 60's folk revival scene and led the cult-worshipped Pentangle to national and international success. He was perhaps most known however as a solo artist and toured and recorded until the day he died. Jansch may not be the most familiar name in U.S. circles but in England he is hailed as a legend and a pioneer. In 2001 he won the lifetime acheivement award from BBC Radio 2 and recieved the highly presitigous Mojo Merit Award. Jansch had an interesting way of playing guitar and writing music too. He used unusual playing styles and chords to create music that us fans can only describe as brilliant. It's an unfortunate day for lovers of folk and his presence will always be felt in the music and those he influenced. He will be missed.


Bert Jansch - Dragonfly by John Bidwell