In memory of Mako Sakamoto

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Dear all, I’m sending my deepest condolences to drummer and percussionist Mako Sakamoto’s family & friends. Mako very sadly passed away this week. Some of you will know Mako’s contribution to music, or you might love tracks he played on, without being aware it was Mako beating the skins. I knew Mako for a relatively short time but long enough to be touched by his beautiful spirit and to know he was the most talented, soulful kind and instinctive musician to play with. We played together this year on my forthcoming Mull Historical Society ‘Wakelines’ at the house of producer, Bernard Butler. He was the first musician Bernard mentioned for the record and I’m so glad he did. Bernard and Mako worked together for many years on a whole range of records — a Spotify playlist is up here which includes new MHS tracks ‘Little Bird’ and the title track ‘Wakelines’. Mako and Bernard’s collaborations include the classic McAlmost & Butler ‘Yes’ and so much more. I’ll never forget Mako’s ‘one, two, three, four‘ in my headphones and feel blessed he is on the album, and hope you’ll enjoy him. I dedicate ‘Wakelines’ to the spirit of #Mako

The new single, ‘Wakelines’, was just spinning at the weekend on the fantastic Gary Crowley Show on BBC Radio London, you can listen here. The show kicks off with a tribute to Mako and a mighty spin of the aforementioned anthemic McAlmont And Butler song ‘Yes’ – both tracks featuring the late, great Mako Sakamoto on drums. Play him loud. 

Colin