R.I.P. J.G. Ballard: 1930-2009

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Novelist and short story writer J.G. Ballard passed away on Sunday. Best known for his dystopian themed novels that ushered in the New Wave of science fiction in the late 60’s, Ballard’s influence has embedded itself deep within the cultural consciousness of modern film, literature & music. His best known work “Crash,” an exploration of sexual fetishism connected to automobile accidents, was eventually adopted into a film version by Canadian avant garde director, David Cronenberg.

The Guardian’s blog has an excellent write-up detailing Ballard’s far reaching influence on modern pop music. Artists ranging from Joy Division & Gary Numan to today’s Klaxons & Empire of the Sun all exist under the Ballardian umbrella, as does the entire genre of Dubstep. 

-M.O.