Michael Casswell R.I.P.

Sad news of the death of Brian May's rhythm guitarist on his first solo tour.

https://www.facebook.com/LickLibrary/posts/10154917684084453

Will be missed.

Strange, the post has been removed.

We'll see if Brian writes anything on his blog - then we'll know it's for real.

There have been loads of comments on both FB and YT. Brian wouldn't necessarily find out right away, he's not part of the top 1,000 people who are closest to MC, and he hasn't worked with him for nearly a quarter of a century. Sometimes Brian's very swift with offering condolences to fellow musicians, sometimes he's not (e.g. Prince).

Neil Murray seems to think it's true - as do Simon Croft Phil Hilborne and Michael's bandmates in East of Jave.

I know Michael personally. Unfortunately it is true, he drowned on Friday. I would guarantee Brian knows by now.

Sadly it is true - Jamie Humphries and East of Java (a band Michael played with) have also confirmed it on Facebook. Very sad news.

brian-harold-may 26643 wrote:

I know Michael personally. Unfortunately it is true, he drowned on Friday.

Wow - now that's tragic :(

Brian re-tweeted a post by BrianMayGuitars about it, a few hours ago.

Dr. Brian May Retweeted
Brian May Guitars ?@BrianMayGuitars 5 hours ago

RIP Michael Casswell (18.06.63 – 30.09.16) • Sad to hear of the passing of a truly superb guitarist & a great supporter of @BrianMayGuitars

Brian's curse. When will it ever end?!

Never heard of him, maybe we will see him a new release from Brian May €€€€€

Very sad, a great guitarist

Kuijpy wrote: Never heard of him, maybe we will see him a new release from Brian May €€€€€

TWAT

I know ;)

But the original post calling him a rhythm guitarist !?

At the time he was a Satriani clone, and he tried to outstage Brian every night in Resurrection. I bet my left nut that's why Brian sacked him.

But clearly he did well for himself later in life. Far too young to go. Poor guy.