Terry Cox, Drummer for Pentangle and Session Star, Passes Away at 89
Terry Cox, the celebrated drummer who helped define the unique sound of the folk-rock group Pentangle in the late 1960s, has died at the age of 89. His career spanned decades, marked by innovative percussion work and collaborations with a wide array of musical legends.
The Rise of Pentangle and Cox's Key Role
On May 27, 1967, Pentangle made their major debut at the Royal Festival Hall in London, introducing a bold fusion of jazz, blues, and traditional folk music. The band featured acoustic guitar virtuosos Bert Jansch and John Renbourn, singer Jacqui McShee, bassist Danny Thompson, and Terry Cox on drums. Cox played a crucial part in crafting the group's subtle and complex style, balancing acoustic instruments with dynamic rhythms.
He joined Pentangle through his partnership with Thompson, with whom he had formed the rhythm section for Alexis Korner, known as the "godfather of British blues." Their work together included albums like Sky High (1966) and performances on the BBC show Gadzooks!, where Renbourn invited Thompson to join the new band, leading to Cox's inclusion.
Pentangle's Success and Cox's Versatility
After honing their sound at the Horseshoe hotel in London, Pentangle released their self-titled debut album in 1968, gaining traction with support from radio host John Peel. Their 1969 album, Basket of Light, reached number five in the UK charts, propelled by the track Light Flight, which served as the theme for the TV series Take Three Girls. Cox showcased his versatility on this album, contributing vocals, glockenspiel, and his own composition, Springtime Promises.
The band's fame grew, leading to performances at major venues and festivals in the UK and US, including a support slot for the Grateful Dead in San Francisco. Jerry Garcia of the Dead praised Cox as a "tasty jazz drummer," highlighting the band's appeal.
Session Work and Life in Menorca
Beyond Pentangle, Cox was a highly sought-after session drummer. During his time with the band, he played on notable albums such as David Bowie's Space Oddity (1969), the Bee Gees' Cucumber Castle (1970), and Elton John's Madman Across the Water (1971). His career later included work with artists like Charles Aznavour, whom he accompanied from 1974 to 1982.
In 1970, a chilling encounter with cult leader Charles Manson in Los Angeles prompted Cox and his wife, Jill, to relocate to Menorca. There, Jill opened a restaurant, Pan y Vino, while Terry continued to tour and record. Despite the move, he remained active with Pentangle until their breakup in 1973, contributing to albums like Cruel Sister (1970).
Reunions and Legacy
Pentangle reunited several times, with Cox participating in albums such as Open the Door (1985) and In the Round (1986). The original lineup came together in 2007 to receive a lifetime achievement award at the BBC Folk Awards, presented by David Attenborough, and toured the UK in 2008, showcasing their seamless musical interplay.
Born on March 13, 1937, in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, Cox developed a passion for percussion as a teenager, studying locally and playing at venues like the Cadena Club. He married Jill Lewis in 1963, who passed away in 2017, and is survived by their sons, Morgan and Dylan.
Terry Cox's legacy endures through his innovative drumming, which bridged genres and inspired countless musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the world of folk, rock, and jazz music.
