Mantra of the Cosmos, a British supergroup composed of musical luminaries Zak Starkey, Shaun Ryder, Bez, and Andy Bell, were poised to perform a secret gig in London’s Soho district. However, a sudden medical emergency involving Starkey, the son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, forced the band to abruptly cancel the highly anticipated performance just hours before it was scheduled to begin. Starkey, 59, who boasts an impressive musical resume including collaborations with Oasis and The Who, was diagnosed with a blood clot in his left leg, requiring immediate medical attention and bed rest. Doctors prescribed a two-week course of blood thinners to address the existing clot and mitigate the risk of further complications.
The unexpected health crisis threw the band’s plans into disarray, leaving fans and journalists disappointed. Despite their bandmate’s predicament, the remaining members of Mantra of the Cosmos – Ryder of Happy Mondays and Black Grape fame, Bez, also of Happy Mondays, and Bell, known for his work with Oasis and Ride – decided to proceed with a gathering at the Karma Sanctum Soho, the venue where the concert was to be held. They aimed to celebrate the band’s recent activities and engage with fans and members of the press. The band members emphasized the paramount importance of Starkey’s health and expressed their wishes for a speedy recovery.
While the cancellation of the Soho gig undoubtedly cast a shadow over the event, the remaining members of Mantra of the Cosmos attempted to make the most of the situation. They chose to share a video recording of their recent performances at the iconic Cavern Club in Liverpool, a venue steeped in musical history and particularly significant given Starkey’s familial connection to the Beatles. This gesture allowed attendees to experience the band’s energy and musicianship, albeit in a different format than originally intended.
The recent performances at the Cavern Club held special significance for the band, especially for Starkey, who had never played at the legendary venue before. Bez recounted the experience with enthusiasm, describing it as exceeding his expectations and evoking a sense of connection to the Beatles’ legacy. He shared an anecdote about proudly proclaiming Starkey’s lineage to the audience, further emphasizing the historical resonance of the performance. The Cavern Club gigs marked a milestone for Mantra of the Cosmos, solidifying their connection to musical history and showcasing their unique blend of talent and experience.
The formation of Mantra of the Cosmos in 2023 marked a convergence of musical forces, bringing together established artists from various corners of the British music scene. Starkey spearheaded the project, driven by a shared musical vision and a desire to collaborate with like-minded individuals. The band quickly released their debut single, “Gorilla Guerilla,” and made their Glastonbury debut the same year, headlining the Glade stage. Their cancelled Soho gig was intended to further promote their latest vinyl single, “Domino Bones (Gets Dangerous),” a track featuring Noel Gallagher of Oasis, and build anticipation for their forthcoming album.
The incident involving Starkey’s blood clot underscores the unpredictable nature of health issues and their potential to disrupt even the most meticulously planned events. While the cancellation of the secret gig was undoubtedly a setback for the band and their fans, the members of Mantra of the Cosmos demonstrated resilience and a commitment to celebrating their music despite the unforeseen circumstances. Their decision to share the Cavern Club performance footage served as a testament to their dedication to their fans and their determination to continue making music, even in the face of adversity. The focus remained on Starkey’s well-being, highlighting the strong bond between the band members. The incident serves as a reminder of the human element behind the music and the importance of prioritizing health above all else.
