Greatly saddened to read that Arianna Forster (aka Ari-Up) passed away on Wednesday after a battle with cancer. Ari is justifiably highly regarded for her time with The Slits who were one of the best of the British punk bands. I first encountered The Slits in the '70s at a small club, after hearing a session of their music on the late, great John Peel's radio show. Of course, their debut album "Cut" was eagerly anticipated and did not disappoint, emerging as one of the very best slices of vinyl of the decade. Later, I was lucky enough to see The Slits supporting The Clash at Derby's Kings Hall in '78, and the presence of Budgie on drums helped elevate their performance into something truly special
Ari had real stage presence; something you are born with and not something to be cultivated. Ian Curtis, Joe Strummer, Iggy, Pete Murphy, Siouxsie, John Lydon... they all had that certain something and like them, Arianna was absolutely mesmerising to watch.
Now, she's free from pain and doubtless enjoying a drink with dear old Joe in that great bar upstairs.
Thanks for some great music and wonderful memories.
Such a shame. Way too young but as you say, hopefully she's up there jammin' with Joe.
ReplyDeleteSomehow this slipped by my radar until now. Very sorry to hear this. RIP Ari. I sat next to her about 10 years ago at a one-act play that Debbie Harry was acting in in NYC. Saw her perform around the same time, with her daughters on stage, but it wasn't quite the Slits...
ReplyDeleteYeah, they really were an amazing band. Cut just oozes attitude and energy. RIP, but at least she left behind a great musical legacy headlined by one of THE classic albums of the post-punk era.
ReplyDeleteFine tribute, Steve. May she RIP.
ReplyDeleteThanks, JD. She would only have been around 16 when I first saw The Slits perform. It's just so sad she's gone.
ReplyDeleteNed, that's so cool you were next to her and got to see her perform with her daughters.
Ed, great to encounter another Slits fan. That debut really was something.
Thanks, Michael. Soon, it will be the 8th anniversary of Joe Strummer's death. Hate this time of year.
You did quite a nice tribute for her. R.I.P.
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