Des de Moor

Des de Moor, a celebrated English writer, musician, and esteemed beer sommelier, passed away in February 2026 at the age of 64. Born on April 20, 1961, de Moor was a multifaceted talent whose career spanned several creative and cultural domains, leaving a significant mark on each. He was widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to ambient music, his distinctive cabaret performances, and his authoritative writings on British beer culture.

De Moor's musical journey began in the late 1970s, leading him to co-found The Irresistible Force in 1987, an influential electronic project that helped shape the psychill genre. He later explored European chanson and cabaret, most notably with his acclaimed adaptation of David Bowie songs, "Darkness and Disgrace," performed and recorded with pianist Russell Churney. For over a decade, he also curated a popular London club night dedicated to continental song traditions.

Beyond music, Des de Moor became a leading voice in the British beer scene. An accredited Cicerone Beer Sommelier, he was a long-time member of the British Guild of Beer Writers, contributing regularly to Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) publications since 2002. His expertise led him to judge at prestigious international competitions, including the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival.

His literary contributions to beer culture were equally significant. De Moor authored several influential books, including "The CAMRA Guide to London's Best Beer, Pubs and Bars," first published in 2011 and subsequently updated, earning him multiple awards for Best Beer and Travel Writing. His 2023 work, "Cask: The Real Story of Britain's Unique Beer Culture," also received critical acclaim, securing a silver medal at the Guild Awards.

Des de Moor resided in Deptford, southeast London, with his partner Ian Harris. He was known for his passion for walking and his role as secretary and editor for the Ramblers' Association magazine, Walk, until 2015. His passing is a profound loss to the worlds of music, literature, and beer, where his unique insights and dedication will be deeply missed by colleagues, friends, and admirers alike.