I’d known Jim Kotsonas for years through Postcard, that mad and maddening online music community that introduced me to many good people who, in time, became friends. (And sometimes more. I ended up marring that guy in the middle.) I joined Postcard in 2000 or so, and early on, Jim and I discovered that we were also part of the same ‘90s San Francisco music scene-and figured we’d breathed the same beery air at many a show.
But it wasn’t until October 2009 at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass that we met in person. It can be weird when you meet someone that your’ve only known through a computer. Sometimes the real-life version doesn’t square with the online persona. But Jim was the same, only better IRL: Friendly and sweet. Genuine and kind. Soft-spoken. Good energy. He was just a good person to be around.
I’m stunned by his sudden passing. Lorie, I’m so sorry. I’m sending you so much love and comfort. Missy Roback