When I started wearallghosts nearly 3 years ago, the plan was always to give back: give back to the musicians who had given me so much with their music, in particular Cousin Silas.
Lately, I’ve been able to give back in other ways … supporting new or established ventures, and even raising over £150 for HOSPICE UK through our recent ‘end of year’ compilation (an amount that will be doubled by my employer).
I love the community that weareallghosts is part of … the DIY ambient music community that listens and promotes each other’s music; it is one that builds upon an initial idea raised, and focusses on the common good that brings us together rather than the things that divide us as people.
Rick Chase is a prime example of this common good. A chap who through his superb depository for videos on Youtube and his FB group - Ambiofusion - has always been highly encouraging and enthusiastic about ambient music and the community as a whole. Chase is, specifically, a big fan of Cousin Silas and, in Dave’s own words, he felt “compelled to help the lad” and thought it was time to give back.
And give back we will … via dronescape 024 (waag_drs024).
Cousin Silas is very generous with his music and puts everything he can on Archive or Bandcamp for free (PWYW). It is his way of ensuring everyone has access to his music and I fully endorse this rationale. Dronescape 024 (waag_drs024) is different, however. It will ONLY be available on Bandcamp and will cost you the minimum of £1. This isn’t to raise funds for wearellghosts but to raise funds for Rick Chase. This is Cousin Silas’ way of giving back.
A couple of weeks ago, Rick’s wife - Kelly - died of a rare form of cancer. Rick is left with two daughters … and a considerable medical bill to repay. As Dave said in recent correspondence, ‘Our donations are pitiful, but we are trying”.
Every single penny donated will go to Rick Chase. I will do my bit by covering the Bandcamp and Paypal costs … however, I will struggle if someone donates a £1,000. That aside, let’s see if we can raise something for Rick … and show him that the weareallghosts community cares and cares enough to help.
As for what you are getting for your £1: you are getting an intriguing 77 minute aural adventure, one that demonstrates how adept Cousin Silas is getting at post-60 minute pieces. This highly immersive piece is ideal for kicking back on a Sunday afternoon albeit you may not find the rest you need but, instead, discover somewhere new on the edges of perception.
In closing, this dronescape is dedicated to Kelly. It is also dedicated to Edgar Froese, a giant in the realm of expressive instrumental music and a genuine inspiration for the music of Cousin Silas and the work I do. Herr Froese may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
- Tx
