James Gurley, the guitarist of reknowned 60s psychadelic rock act Big Brother And The Holding Company has passed away of a heart attack, 2 days shy of his 70th birthday.The influential group was a central part of the 1960s counter culture forged in San Francisco that would go on to define the decade musically. Particularly noted for their first two albums (1967's self titled effort, and the following year's 'Cheap Thrills'), the band's legacy would often, somewhat understandably be overshadowed by that of their dynamic vocalist, the irresistible Janis Joplin, who cut her teeth as a member of the band.
However Big Brother's creative, vivid arrangements were far from pedestrian, and their often avant garde playing held a marked (though often unacknowledged) influence over both their peers and their followers. As of 2009, BBHC continues to tour to widespread acclaim.
James Gurley's musicianship, both through recordings and through influence will of course continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Tributes from the surviving original members of the band, Sam Andrew, Peter Albin, and David Getz can be found here:
http://bbhc.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=769
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