Today is a sad day for me.  Telefon Tel Aviv’s Charlie Cooper has passed away.  Telefon Tel Aviv created some of the most beautiful music the world has ever known.  I’ve played their tracks out at parties, cafés and art openings too many times to count.

Their music was also with me during the quietest moments of my life as a music lover and human being.

From their MySpace page:

“Hello, Everyone.

It breaks my heart to inform you all that Charlie Cooper, my better half in Telefon Tel Aviv, passed away on January 22nd.

We have been friends since high school, and began making records together a decade ago.  We have been so fortunate to tour the world together, while at the same time having a massive amount of laughs at one another’s expense.

Aside from Charlie’s singular genius and musical gifts, I can tell you that he was a total sweetheart of a guy, and a loving friend and confidant to people everywhere.  His musicianship was surpassed only by his greater gift to the world – his warmth, his generosity, his unquenchable humor, and his undying loyalty to those whom he loved.  In the spirit of honorable mention, however, I should mention that he had a shoe collection that was marvelous, knowledge of hip-hop that was profound, and knowledge of wine that was subtle.

He is survived by a sister, a neice, a nephew, his mother, his stepfather, me, and more adoring friends than the Universe has dark matter.  As such, his family and I ask for your discretion and consideration of our privacy during these extremely turbulent waters.

Yours in Music,

Joshua Eustis“

Below is one of my favorite songs ever – I’d even say my number one.  Rest in peace Charlie.

[display_podcast]