When we saw him with the Jazz Wizards on February 2 this year, just one month ago, he was coughing and spluttering throughout his rather long set and encore. All he said about it was he was suffering from some virus or something and his other medical problems which he wasn't gonna get into that night. He then played his butt off on guitar and trumpet, sang, soloed, was congenial and funny, and very very entertaining. Even when his archtop guitar fell face flat on the stage he was unruffled. It was one of the best performances I've ever witnessed, from one of the musicians I've admired most. He was hot. His band played very sympathetically, deferring to Jeff's call all evening, but giving each other tons of solo space and accompaniment support.

I wanted to talk to him about three cds I purchased that night, one of which I bought for a disabled friend, but thought that under the circumstances I shouldn't bother him backstage.

A huge talent and personality, what a shame it is that he's gone.

May he rest in peace.

Peace, Mooh.