Active during the 1990s, Mors Syphilitica graced the New York gothic scene with their dark, enchanting ethereal sound. The core of the band consisted of husband and wife duet, Eric and Lisa Hammer who have unfortunately split up since. Eric took charge of the songwriting and production, playing and recording every instrument himself. Lisa provided the sweeping operatic vocals, a trademark the band has become known for.After three outstanding albums, unfortunately the band ceased to exist. Even more unfortunately their first two albums, the eponymous Mors Syphilitica and Primrose were on an underground label, meaning very few were produced. After several years of looking I have been unable to find any copies at all. Their final album Feather and Fate was released on the well known Projekt Records, so is still easy to find on CD, as well as being on iTunes and Amazon music.
Nobody else ever sounded quite like them, and I doubt anyone could ever take their place. No other band can offer such darkly sensual atmospheres, sometimes turning around to hug you with warmth. And no, it's not really over the top, cheesy and dramatic darkness. Their sound would be best described as having an organic darkness to it.Though both have pursued musical projects since their split, neither is as good as they were together. If you have ever listened to bands such as Cocteau Twins or Switchblade Symphony then there's a good chance you'll enjoy Mors Syphilitica.