13th June 2025
Sad news from the Crash Gears:
It is with great sadness that the Crash Gears mourn of the passing of our original drummer Alistair Garrett. When the band formed in 2015 Al was the vital link that brought Tom Hiscocks and Pat Kirwan together with James Leighton and Martin and Tom Noke in the Organ Inn for what was to be the band’s first meeting. He arranged our first rehearsal. From the beginning Al (some called him Ally) brought his decades of experience to make the band swing in a way that only years of playing can make possible. He was able to play tight but allow that element of swing that makes a band come alive. He had such a feel for his kit that he played with his eyes closed for most of the time. For Al it was all about feel and he played with smile on his face. We played many great gigs together and those gigs with Al in the engine room will live long in the memory for us. Here he is playing tight and loose at the same time back in 2016. Farewell Al, a great drummer, a good friend and a lovely man.
For those that wish to attend Alistair’s funeral, it will be held at The Chapel in Horningsham at 13:30 on Monday 23rd June and afterwards at Horningsham Hall.