Progressive guitarist Allan Holdsworth dies

Los Angeles, Apr 17 (PTI) Progressive guitar virtuoso, Alan Holdsworth has died at the age of 70. Known as a guitarist’s guitarist and famous for his contribution to progressive rock and jazz fusion work with bands including Soft Machine, Gong, and U K, Holdsworth passed away last night. His daughter, Louise Holdsworth confirmed the news of his death on Facebook. “It is with heavy hearts that we notify everyone of the passing of our beloved father. We would appreciate privacy and time while we grieve the loss of our dad, grandad, friend and musical genius. We will update close friends and family when service arrangements have been made and will notify the public of an open memorial service, which all would be welcome. “We are undeniably still in shock with his unexpected death and cannot begin to put into words the overwhelming sadness we are experiencing. He is missed tremendously. Louise, Sam, Emily and Rori,” she wrote in an emotional post. According to Variety, Holdsworth was born in England’s Bradford but had lived most of his life in Southern California. His complex guitar work was cited as an influence by musicians such as Eddie Van Halen and Robben Ford. He initially played with rock and jazz fusion bands in the early ’70s and then collaborated with acts from the Canterbury progressive scene. But Holdsworth objected to the organised structures of a major touring band and left the group after its first self- titled album in 1978. He released a number of jazz fusion solo albums and teamed up with the likes of Gordon Beck and Mark Varney, and continued to tour. His 1983 EP “Road Games” had received a Grammy nomination for best rock instrumental performance. The cause of death of Holdsworth death has not been officially disclosed. PTI