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Something Is Better Than Nothing

This was a classic 'Couch Fuzz' track and came out of the legendary jam from Edan's 40th. Couch Fuzz had been playing together for years, and to the point where they knew each other's style so well, that a jam session became more like a rehearsal. A riff, turned into something that was timeless and classic; a meandering through blues and funk, and ended up sounding like an anthem. Or even a Tom Waits classic, or a track by 'The Meters', or even James Brown. 

To be fair, the opening riff is a Beastie Boys cover, but the song does evolve into an entirely Couch Fuzz affair. Whether Edan was aware that Kieran had pulled out a Beastie Boys cover is hard to tell. What is clear though, is that he would have taken objection to it, as he had a pet hate for playing covers. Here, as always, Edan's guitar playing stands out. 

Couch Fuzz were Kieran Ruffles, Reverend Tull, and Edan.

Culitvating Longform Gratitude Edan's 40th

Unknown album (11/01/2024 9:59:47 PM)

Rise again

So tired of waiting

Mexican riff

Kizz improv

You can't tell what you're missin' babe

This track was recorded live at Jim's house in Carlton, who also played the drums on it. I was invited that night, and found myself holding a guitar, opposite Edan, which was a great honor. Our styles were always different, and growing up, we had very different influences. For that track Edan was asking that I present a riff, which he would notoriously jive on, inventing solos and riffs, embellishing on top of the chord progression. I get the impression that he wasn't overly enthused with it, as there was nothing all that special or inventive about the riff. But it was good enough to work with, and he did, as always play inventively over the top. In the middle of the jam, Luke Greenhatch showed up. The two seemed to have a guitar rivalry, but were both coming from the same place, musically. Incredibly, he tuned up and plugged in, on the spot, and played a solo that matched the song. It was a special moment for me, playing alongside Edan. Edan's vocals are, once again, an improvisation. Interestingly, my sister was also at this jam session, and actually sang on this track, as the same time as playing bongos. So, it really was a family affair. Almost like a Jackson 5 vibe.

Everything

This was from a session recorded at Edan's Adelaide home residence. Once again, his guitar playing shows out. Unfortunately, the recording may not be as good as it could be, as it came as a file on my mobile phone.

Mr Cool.

This SoundCloud account is dedicated to the late, Edan Barnett, and his music. 

There are many more recordings which he made. He was an amazing archivist, and, on his journey, actually filled two giant weave baskets with cassette recordings of guitar riffs! All made on his beloved 'four-track recorder'.

His guitar playing speaks for itself, for its breadth and depth and power: humorous, bold, funky, melancholy and raucous. Even eerie. 

He had managed to turn the guitar into more than an instrument, but a tool for musical composition; it formed the lifeblood of his band.

It should be noted that all of these tracks are recorded live, which is another testament to his writing and playing ability, and the strength of his band.

A composer and a performer, his gift was apparent at a very young age. 

Sadly, his addictions proved to be his downfall, as is the case for so many musicians. 

He is missed and admired by many.

Couch Fuzz

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