Jiminy. Just minutes after referencing the anniversary of Devo drummer Bob Casale’s passing in a Facebook post, I’m hit by the news of Rick Buckler‘s death.
The Jam’s legendary drummer passed away at home in England on Feb. 18 after a short, undisclosed illness.
Buckler, along with the band’s bassist Bruce Foxton, comprised one of rock history’s best rhythm sections. For the uninitiated, they were fucking fierce. The Jam was a trio, with young “Modfather” Paul Weller out in front. Each musician was young yet unbelievably talented, making for an incredible concert experience. They played like they were going to war the next morning, and Buckler was the artillery. He wasn’t merely a fantastic timekeeper; Buckler could attack like a demon for one song, swing a la Charlie Watts the next – and for the third, be as delicate as a jazz artiste; whatever Weller’s compositions called for, and much more. His was a unique, highly inspirational style.
During the group’s late-70s/early 80s run, The Jam was the most popular band in Britain – and Buckler was a huge part of that success. The sounds they created… well, it was like another trio, Rush, in that each member had to be able to keep up with one another – mentally, and physically. No one to hide behind, no one to carry slack. Not if they were going to conquer the world. No mean feat. God, what records The Jam made.
Rick Buckler, one-third of The Jam and one of my favorite drummers, dead at 69.
