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Archives: September 2008

Syd Barrett tribute coming Oct. 22

Posted September 22, 2008 by Floydian Slip

Cambridge, England, will play host to “The City Wakes,” a 10-day celebration of the work of Pink Floyd co-founder Syd Barrett, running Oct. 22 to Nov. 1.

The event will include concerts, exhibitions, guided tours, music workshops, a 1960s style “happening,” talks and memorabilia.

Friends of Barrett’s taking part in the event include long-time Floyd album cover designer Storm Thorgerson and photographer Mick Rock.

Cambridge, about 50 miles north of London, was Barrett’s home for most of his life. He died at his home there in July 2006.

The City Wakes is produced by Escape Artists, a 10-year-old U.K. arts and mental health charity and professional production house. Escape Artists aims to improve quality of life, health and social welfare, by recognizing the importance of creativity to an individual’s well-being.

Funds raised through The City Wakes will support the charity’s work in the mental health sector.

Much more information about the event is available at “The City Wakes” Web site.


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Trashcan Sinatras to release tribute to Syd Barrett

Posted September 22, 2008 by Floydian Slip

Trashcan Sinatras will release “Oranges and Apples,” a song inspired by the late Pink Floyd co-founder Syd Barrett.

The song will be available as a download Oct. 13, and will be included on the band’s upcoming album “In the Music.”

“Oranges and Apples,” the title of which is a play on the Barrett-penned Floyd single “Apples and Oranges,” is being released in conjuntion with “The City Awakes” event. That 10-day celebration of the work of Barrett will be held Oct. 22 to Nov. 1 in Cambridge, England.

Trashcan Sinatras are a Scottish band formed in 1987.


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Rick Wright dead at 65

Posted September 15, 2008 by Floydian Slip

Keyboardist Rick Wright, a founding member of Pink Floyd, died today at his home in England following a short fight with cancer. He was 65.

His family declined to give more details of his death.

Wright was a member of Sigma 6, which evolved into The Pink Floyd Sound in 1965 — eventually shortened to Pink Floyd. He remained an integral part of the band until 1979’s “The Wall,” when he was forced from the band by Roger Waters, citing lack of creative input.

Wright didn’t participate in Floyd’s 1983 album “The Final Cut,” but returned late in the making of 1987’s “A Momentary Lapse of Reason,” after Waters had left the group.

As a songwriter, he’ll probably be best remembered for “Us and Them” and “The Great Gig in the Sky,” both from 1973’s “Dark Side of the Moon.”

Wright also released two solo works — “Wet Dream” (1978) and “Broken China” (1996) — and paired with ex-Fashion guitarist Dave Harris to form Zee, which release one album, “Identity,” in 1984.

Wright’s most recent Floyd-related work involved playing on Floyd guitarist David Gilmour‘s “On an Island” (2006) album, and subsequent tour.

“He was gentle, unassuming and private but his soulful voice and playing were vital, magical components of our most recognized Pink Floyd sound,” Gilmour said today. “I have never played with anyone quite like him.”


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