Electronic music label Spotted Peccary Music reported the passing of Michael Allison, also known as Darshan Ambient. Allison died on Thursday, January 9, 2020 in Modesto, California. A Day Like Any Other, his 14th album for the label was released January 17, 2020.
Michael Allison performed and composed music from an early age. He became lead singer at age 16 for Brimstone in Modesto, California, and then bassist for Los Angeles show band Skyway, touring the South and the Pacific Northwest. Soon after they disbanded, he formed a lifelong friendship with Naux (Juan Maciel) playing in several bands, including Nona Hendryx & Zero Cool, Richard Hell and China Shop in New York City.
In 1984, he formed his own band, Empty House, playing at CBGB’s, TRAX and The Pyramid Club, where they were the Tuesday night house band. It was through his relationship with Naux that Michael started composing music, combining “ambient electronic” and “jazz” influences, from Brian Eno to Miles Davis.
In 1992, Michael started a solo career, writing and recording music. He soon became known as Darshan Ambient. Michael released various critically-acclaimed albums such as Providence, The Zen Master’s Diary, Autumn’s Apple, re: Karma, From Pale Hands To Weary Skies, A Day Within Days, Dream In Blue.
He joined the Lotuspike label in 2004 and then Spotted Peccary Music in 2008, releasing a total of 14 projects with the labels during that time, including the brand new album.
His music, described as cinematic and melodic, has been used in films, television commercials, and documentaries including “Remember The Sultana” a Civil War-era film about the United States’ largest maritime disaster.
Michael is survived by his wife Nicky and their four children.