Man who brought music to so many was a true ‘legend’

A WELL-KNOWN drummer who loved to perform has died at the age of 63.

Tribute has been paid to Maesteg musician John Algar following his sudden death on August 12.

Born on Christopher Road in Garth, John grew up with his parents and two brothers – Martin and Robert.

A music-lover at a young age, he started playing the drums when he was 17.

Known for dressing smartly with his waistcoat, John performed in many groups over the years before joining his latest band Smooth Operator.

The six-piece are wellknown for their gigs around Neath, Port Talbot and Swansea.

Performing at a wedding in Hampshire two days before his death, his bandmates described how he spent a happy day travelling and playing before posing for photographs in the wedding photo booth.

As well as his drumming skills, John will be remembered for his sense of humour. Kind, soft-spoken and well-liked, he would do anything to help if a band member forgot a piece of equipment to take to a gig.

Always there for family and friends, he would also do everything he could to ensure a performance went smoothly on the night.

Over the years, John became a popular face around Maesteg – partly due to his talent for organising events like the jam night at the King Alfred on a Tuesday, and later at The Bird on a Thursday.

In his free time away from the stage, John also enjoyed meeting friends over a pint to discuss gigs or music equipment.

He will be sorely missed by the music community, his family and partner Laura.

Described as a “legend” and “true gentleman”, tributes have been paid on social media to a man “taken too soon”.

One person said: “Such sad news. John was a lovely friendly person, he was a talented drummer. He will be missed.”

Another added: “A great musician. Another one of ‘our family’ taken too soon.”

John’s funeral will be held on Monday, September 2 at St Michael’s Church, followed by refreshments at The Bird.