The Boston music community is mourning the loss of Thayer Harris, a recent graduate the New England Institute of Art’s audio program and beloved audio engineer at Mad Oak Studios and 37ft Studios. Harris, who is being praised for this enthusiasm and professionalism by those who knew him, passed away recently at the age of 23, and now a GoFundMe Memorial Fund page has been established in his name.
“He was just the nicest kid, super soft-spoken and down to earth and positive,” says Seager Tennis of Mellow Bravo. “We all loved working with him and being around him. He was very much part of the whole Mad Oak family. He worked with Mellow Bravo on a few of our projects and we loved him dearly.”
Many are taking to Harris’ public Facebook profile to share their thoughts, including Mark Lind.
“Thayer, love to you and your family from all of the guys in Ducky Boys,” Lind wrote. “We enjoyed working with you. You demonstrated top-notch professionalism, patience, humor and hard work. You’ll be missed by so many. And many bands will miss out on the chance to grow under your producing leadership. If I’m lucky enough to reach the pearly gates one day then I hope to be greeted by a Beatles reunion album that you produced. Rest easy, young sir.”
Doug Sherman of Gozu praised Harris’ constant enthusiasm and genuine love for music.
“Amazing work ethic, super talented,” says Sherman. “Way too young.”
Added guitarist Tony Savarino, who worked with Harris recently on a track for his upcoming record: “He was a very young, talented, up-and-coming engineer and producer. Very sweet, nice guy.”
Benny Grotto of Mad Oak Studios in Allston perhaps knew Harris the best.
“I can count on half of one hand the number of interns I’ve had who were not only never complained about, but who — virtually from his first day on the job — had my clients going out of their way to tell me how great he was, and how much they enjoyed his company,” Grotto wrote. “Nobody ever rose through the ranks here at Mad Oak as quickly as Thayer did, and that’s every bit as attributable to his giant heart, wit, and all-around human awesomeness as it was to his monstrous talent and tireless work ethic.”
Harris’ final post to his personal website came on May 28, when he relayed news about working on a record with Boston/Providence trio Cannibal Ramblers.
“Spent Monday in Rhode Island recording new material for the Cannibal Ramblers!” he wrote. “This was done in a warehouse. It’s awesome. 8-Tracks, tracked live mostly in one take. Very excited to mix these tunes! The whole session was also video recorded, which will be very cool to see. I’ll throw some pictures of the room and session up soon!”
Yesterday, Harris’ GoFundMe memorial page was set up by Kelli Gray. The goal is to raise $1,000 to help with his father’s funeral costs. Here is the description:
He was taken away too soon. He left family and friends I shock and sadness. Please help by donating to a fund to help his dad, Craig Harris, with funeral expenses or whatever he may need during this sad time. Craig first lost his beloved wife, Karen 4 years ago and now has to say goodbye to his son. Our goal is to help in a small way a very wonderful person who lost a wonderful son.
To donate, click the link below…