Vale Dean Turner

Some terrible news for the Australian music world today – Dean Turner, bass player for Magic Dirt, has passed away after a long battle with cancer.

Says the Herald Sun:

The rock music community has lost one of its most-loved members, Magic Dirt bass player Dean Turner.

Turner and then-girlfriend Adalita Srsen formed Magic Dirt in the early ’90s, and their feedback-driven sound quickly caused music industry buzz, with talent scouts eager to sign them.

After a turbulent early career – the Geelong-based band broke up even before their first single was released – Magic Dirt went on to become one of Australia’s most enduring bands, outlasting three record labels.

Turner was much loved for his energy, enthusiasm and generosity towards younger bands. He acted as record producer for many new bands without charging a fee.

My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and two daughters.

Magic Dirt bassist Dean Turner succumbs to cancer at age 37

And now, a song from Magic Dirt that will forever remind me of religiously taping Rage during the early to mid nineties.