John Peel

was undoubtedly a major force within UK music, influencing more people than most bands do. I frequently used to partake of his show as a young man, but for me Andy Kershaw has always been more of an influence. I remember as a teenager tuning into his show and hearing the most outlandish but melodic music from around the world. Whilst my peers were listening to Nirvana, Suede and others, I heard bluegrass, highlife, reggae and much more. Indeed, this evening I am enjoying the two volumes of Golden Afrique (samples from volume 1 at Stern's. And for that I am eternally grateful, as an evening of Sleeper, Echobelly or Shed Seven would be too awful for words.