In Memoriam: Kevin Ayers

Kevin Ayers, who co-founded the 1960s British psychedelic band The Soft Machine, has passed away at the age of 68. The cause of death has not be released.

Ayers formed The Soft Machine in 1966, naming the group after the classic novel by William S. Burroughs. The group became an influential force as part of the “Canterbury scene” and was a fixture at London’s UFO Club. They went on to release debut album in 1968 and toured North America with the Jimi Hendrix Experience the same year.

Ayers grew tired from heavy touring and left the group shortly after, selling his bass to Hendrix’s bassist Noel Redding. He went on to release 17 solo albums including 2007’s The Unfairground.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Kevin Ayers.