It's with heavy hearts that we learn the news of Rick Bryant's passing today. He was a much-loved Auckland musician and creative force, full of wonderful stories, having lead a remarkable life. He formed and lead Mammal and Rough Justice in the seventies, as a singer-saxophonist, and went on to be a key part of many more collaborations and bands including BLERTA, The Neighbours, Gutbucket (with whom he is pictured above, in a photo from his own collection, courtesy of Audioculture), The Jive Bombers, The Windy City Strugglers, and the Jubilation Gospel Choir.
As Andrew Schmidt writes in is profile of Rick at Audioculture, "with a musical upbringing that encompassed rhythm and blues, electric blues, acid rock and psychedelic soul, Rick Bryant's lengthy career stands as a testament to the US soul, R&B and gospel singers he admired."
He was a vibrant figure, and will be greatly missed by the music community. Our condolences and thoughts go to Rick's family and friends.