Funeral Arrangements, Benefit Set for Danny McClain

Image via

Danny McClain

As we sadly reported yesterday, drummer Danny McClain, of Grand Ulena and numerous other projects, died on Monday. He was 31. Visitation will be at Baumann Colonial Chapel (2504 Woodson Road, Overland) on Thursday, March 31, from 4 to 8 p.m. The funeral is Friday, April 1, at 11 a.m. (Here's the Post-Dispatch obituary.)

Joe Raglani, a McClain friend and collaborator, has put together a benefit to help offset funeral costs. Details are still being confirmed and finalized, although the show will take place at Floating Laboratories starting at 10 p.m. on Saturday, April 2. Raglani's Facebook event describes what's going to go down there better than I could:

Chris Smentkowski and I thought the best way to pay tribute to this remarkable musician and good friend was to do so through music and partying. Two things Danny knew best. We plan on making a ruckus, one that will make it's way to his spirit hopefully and let him know just how sad and angry we are to lose him... way too fucking early. As we have just learned about the details concerning his being laid to rest, I find it prudent to set into motion this event, that with your help, will help provide some relief for his sister whom I imagine will need our help and support. To put it bluntly, funerals are expensive and quite a burden for anyone, especially a single individual.

As this is so sudden, specifics concerning exactly how... are being formed as you read this. One thing is for certain, you and I can immediately help by simply coming to Floating Laboratories this Saturday night and dropping some cash into a bucket. In return you get a chance to witness several musical acts and performances by those of us who have been fortunate enough to have collaborated with and/or been influenced by this man's singular musical expression and friendship. I will be putting together something as I know Chris will be too. Several other acts will be announced here as they are confirmed. I hope to have a few musical items for sale as well. all profits will go directly to this relief effort. Please come out and share your experiences and memories celebrating Danny's life and legacy.

More information will be added as it's known, but certainly check the Facebook event for updates.