Who could foresee, at the tail-end of 2015, that within just a few weeks we’d lose all-time musical greats like Lemmy, Stevie Wright and now – most shocking of all – David Bowie. Prior to this terrible spell the stars had smiled on us, delivering two of the most unique guitarists in recent history to FBi’s door.

Though unaware that they were already acquainted (having met decades ago whilst touring together), Jack Shit had spent months trying to arrange a one-off collaboration featuring both artists, based on the compatibility of their sound alone – but official channels kept drawing a blank. In the end it was Thurston Moore‘s ardent curiosity that enabled this singular exchange. He was trawling through Sydney book and record stores when he happened upon Mick Turner‘s art show; at which a staff member tipped him to a gig that night at 107 Projects; where Mick then personally invited him to play on Jack Off the next morning.

What transpired was a wonderful mix of innocence and wisdom: two renowned artists, with their heads down, improvising, without effects, for nigh on 15 minutes – seemingly lost in the subtle sounds emerging from their fingertips, like a couple of overgrown teenagers, still. Like so many of our greatest artists they remain restless, inquisitive, passionate and open. Thurston had been taken by the tales he’d heard of Tasmania’s ancient Thylacine – and the piece was subsequently named for that now-extinct animal. You can listen to the entire live performance plus a typically expansive and informal interview via the player below.

Back in the present, as we process the loss of iconic musicians who’ve informed both ourselves and the culture we are part of, let’s also celebrate what we still have (including that living manifestation of memory) and all that can be created from it. And let’s celebrate the imminent return to Sydney, after many years absence, of Mick’s marvellous trio, Dirty Three – who are playing at the State Theatre for the Sydney Festival this Friday evening. After a particularly tumultuous year it will be a salve for the soul to hear Jim White and Warren Ellis join him onstage at that spectacular venue – translating the agony and ecstasy of existence in wordless music and melody, as only they can.

Jack Off with Jack Shit // Saturdays 3-5pm on FBi 94.5FM

WHAT: FBi & Sydney Festival present Dirty Three
WHERE: State Theatre
WHEN: Friday 15 January, 2016
HOW MUCH: From $69 here