January 3rd would have been Andy Applegate's 44th birthday. He was the drummer in Fairmont from 2003 until he had health problems later in his life. To honor him, the band's founder Neil Sabatino released "Buy More Records" as the first single from what is likely the last album by Fairmont, "Everything is Fleeting."
In his memory, the band is raising money to put instruments in the hands of students through the Asbury Park Music Foundation. They have a special APMF hoodie available for $59 until the end of January. The hoodie is available for purchase here and will ship out February 10th.
The single is available on Bandcamp for $2.
"Andy played hundreds of shows with Fairmont all over the United States and although he was dealing with many serious issues related to his kidney the whole time, he never let it slow him down. Andy loved Guided By Voices, buying records and playing drums more than any person I’ve ever met," explained Sabatino.
"We wrote this song as we celebrate the life of our dear friend Andy and as well are offering merchandise with this simple mantra “Buy More Records”. All funds raised will be donated to the Asbury Park Music Foundation to put instruments in the hands of students, music education and other services. Andy Applegate was a very special man that touched the lives of everyone that knew him and we hope in some small way this honors his memory for years to come," he added.
"Buy More Records" Lyrics
Sometimes it brought him down but he tried not to wear a frown. Sometimes it was all too much, but he never used it as a crutch
He was never one to preach, but this is what he had to teach: buy more records, man and do the best you can, give it everything until there’s nothing left to bring.
And when he banged the drum, it reminded me of when he was young. It always brought him to another place, transcending time and space.
And think of him every time you hear Robert Pollard‘s voice as you drive all night until the mornings light
Buy more records, man, join a band and get in the van
