RIP Gary Dwyer

What dreadful news to hear today that Gary Dwyer - drummer for the Teardrop Explodes - has passed away after a short illness. 

Deepest condolences to his family and friends.

It should be remembered that Gary was the beating human heart in the centre of the Teardrops from start to finish - the only other member besides Julian Cope to stay throughout the turbulence of the band's membership. It's also worth noting that once Dwyer joined the fledgeling band in the early autumn of 1978 he pressed the band to rehearse, to get better and to play their first gig at Eric's in November 1978. Without his enthusiasm and drive, the Teardrop Explodes could have been just another name on a long list of semi legendary Liverpool bands which existed more in the minds of their members than the actual music they may have created. 

Dwyer's passing also closes the door on any possibility that the band would reform. It was never likely anyway - Cope had always said he would never go back. But some of us still held out on a vague hope. 

Thank you Rocky for all you contributed to the band both musically and emotionally, for being the rock solid foundation that the band was built upon, and for helping create some of the greatest music of all time. 

Rest In Peace Buff Manila 

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