It’s hard to describe a person who matters so much – not just to me, but to so many others as well. It goes beyond the shock and the grief I know we are all feeling. The fact is Shane was such a nuanced person that mere words cannot begin to contain his energy or his character.

Shane had no such dilemmas with expression. He could do things with his face and with body language that made words unnecessary. But of course he was great with those as well – constantly spouting turns of phrase that were absolutely unique. His throwaway lines would have been my gems, and I get paid to write.

We met when we were about 20, and were friends right away. I understand he had that kind of connection with a number of people. I feel lucky to have been one of them.

Shane and I wrote songs together for several years before we finally lined up a band and gigs. He was a phenomenally talented musician and songwriter – no bass player I’ve ever met had his ear for melody, or could envision the big picture for a tune the way Shane could. He loved to challenge himself, purposely writing bass lines he knew would be difficult for him to play. It’s an honour to have shared a stage with him.

He was fiercely loyal to his friends – sensitive, considerate, and he knew exactly the right way to be there for someone he cared about when it mattered.

Being around Shane just made me feel good. Spending time with him was deeply satisfying - even when we were young and broke, we were never bored. He was brilliant, dynamic, hilarious, and kind. I love him dearly and will miss him for the rest of my life.

Lauri Shaw