Dave Hughes, known professionally as Cousin Silas, was born on May 7, 1959. He is an English electronic music artist, notable for his ambient and drone music. Before focusing on soundscapes, Hughes played guitar in local bands performing new wave and punk covers. His stage name was derived from a character in King Crimson's song "Happy Family". In 2001, Cousin Silas released his debut album Lilliput. Over the years, he released several notable albums including Portraits & Peelings (2003) and Necropolis Line (2006). Cousin Silas made an appearance on BBC Radio 1 played by John Peel in January 2004.