Yesterday we were contacted by the family of Martin Berry, who you may know better as MB1, and informed of his passing on the weekend at the age of only 59.
Martin was a moderator on Basschat for as long as I can remember. Like all of us, he was here because he had a passion for music. His family are well aware of the extent of his 'wheeling and dealing' and how much he enjoyed being a part of this community which he helped us create. As a moderator, his style was forgiving, and always combined with a sense of humour so left-field that it often left me scratching my head.
Now and then, when he could remember his login, Martin would get a taste of blood and go on a 'moderation bender' and moderate the hell out of BC for a few days before resuming his buying and selling habit. All the time, his interest was in keeping the forum fair and fun, and everyone he dealt with was on the receiving end of his sharp wit and kind nature.
His family have promised to share information about his funeral in due course. I will update the thread with details for anyone able to attend, or perhaps set some time aside at the time to contemplate how short life can be, and how we should all take a leaf out of Martin's book and enjoy it whilst we can.
Please raise a glass for MB1, rest in peace mate and remember, even valve amps are weightless in heaven
On behalf of the Basschat team
Martin Berry playing an Alembic Epic he probably bought and sold on Basschat