Drummer Allan Browne shared much with Gary Costello over many years. The respected bassist died suddenly on December 20.
Allan remembers his friend and musical partner.
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“stars apart”
It must have been 1979 or 1980. Ray Martin came down from Sydney. He told me about this amazing bassist at the Grainstore. We went in. He was amazing! I played a song or two, the energy was breathtaking and the man a truly beautiful cat. Humble, passionate, totally committed, a wonderful listener, forgiving, understanding, gentle ,loyal, honest, sensitive, disciplined, and a truly great creative musician.
I was blessed to have Gaz next to me for 20 years with Paul Grabowsky, Onaje, Ken Shroeder, Vince Jones, Paul Rettke, Barry Duggan,Bob Sedergreen and, lately, with Aaron Choulai. We also played with Milt Jackson, Johnny Griffin, Mal Waldron and lots of weddings and reception gigs. I did one of the latter with Gary last Saturday. He soloed on every song at a deafening Christmas bash as if he was auditioning for Miles in the 60s or his beloved Bird in the 50s. He was never afraid of the unknown, the uncharted depths and the highs of free improvisation. On meeting Mal Waldron we were told, “There are no charts or standards … when I nod my head we are in”. All grist to Gary’s mill.
We shared a journey of discovery together in all these groups, especially in the trio. We were attempting play away from normal swing time yet preserve the momentum, pulse and harmony. We often remarked that out concentration and absorption was so intense that the gigs were over before they began.
Gary shared his whole musical world with passion and generosity and, along with Paul, supported me quietly as my illness took over. I mentioned families. Gary appeared to be a totally committed, loyal, responsible and loving husband and father. I cannot think of a musician better loved or respected around Australia. I would be truly honoured to be his brother. To Julia, Olivia, Jan, Jai and family I commit my profound sympathy and prayers.
I still cant get used to the past tense, a future without Gaz is unthinkable yet.
We both loved e.e.cummings …
“and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart
i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart)”.
