[lbo-talk] Killing Joke singer chosen as official EU composer-in-residence

[B.]

[Have no idea why this piece says he's the 'former
frontman' of Killing Joke, as the band released a
helluva strong LP this year and are still touring.
Also, another weird fact about KJ singer Coleman is he
helped rewrite the New Zealand national anthem a few
years ago. No kidding. - B.]

http://www.gloucestershireecho.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=139331&command=displayContent&sourceNode=139314&contentPK=15808526&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch

KILLING JOKE JAZ TO PLAY FOR POLITICIANS
Date : 31.10.06

 
Music legend Jaz Coleman has been chosen as Composer
in Residence for the European Union.The former front
man of post-punk rockers Killing Joke is writing a
piece with violinist Nigel Kennedy to perform before
politicians in Brussels in January.

As Composer in Residence he will be given a grant to
write and perform music for the EU on special
occasions.

Originally from Cheltenham, Jeremy 'Jaz' Coleman was
lead singer in Killing Joke from 1980 to 1996.

The band has been named as an influence on bands from
Pearl Jam to Nirvana and Faith No More to Metallica.

As well as being a singer, songwriter and keyboard
player, Jaz is an accomplished orchestral and
soundtrack composer, and also plays violin.

His mother Gloria, who lives in Charlton Kings, said:
"I was so thrilled for him. He constantly surprises
me.

"He just wants to be where he can express his music
and share it with others. He was especially pleased to
get Composer in Residence for the EU because he lives
in Europe and he loves it there."

Manager Matt Luxon said: "Jaz is delighted to be
offered such a prestigious assignment."

Jaz commissioned music for the 1998 Rugby World Cup
and in 2002 he received three Grammies and quadruple
platinum sales for his concerto entitled 'Promeny'.

He is already composer in residence for New Zealand
and the Czech Republic, where he has lived for the
past seven years.