Some legacies are too powerful to fade. The music of pioneering '90s "Low Rock” trio Morph*ne,was as hypnotic as it was groundbreaking. Fusing baritone saxophone, 2-string slide bass, and
drums into a sound that was sultry, raw, and entirely their own. But when frontman
Mark Sandman died suddenly on stage in 1999, Morph*ne’s story seemed to end.
Yet from those ashes, a new sound emerged. Vapors of Morph*ne isn’t just a tribute; it’s a
continuation, an evolution. Formed in the late 2000's by Morph*ne saxophonist Dana
Colley and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Lyons, the band continued to evolve and their latest
album, 2021's Fear & Fantasy (Schnitzel Records, UK), represents a new era, blending fresh
material with the signature Morph*ne sound.
The story of Vapors of Morph*ne is as serendipitous as it is poetic. Years before they met, Colley
unknowingly captured a photo of Lyons and his street band in New Orleans, pasting it into his
tour journal with a note about their evocative blues sound. A decade later, after Hurricane
Katrina forced Lyons to relocate to Boston, the two musicians were introduced, only to discover
they had matching halves of the same Polaroid, a moment of fate that sparked their
collaboration.
VAPORS OF Morph*ne
A Legacy Reimagined, a Sound Reborn
90’s Low Rock Trio feat original member of Morph*ne
Touring April & May
with Special Guest, Jeb Caldwell
Since then, Vapors of Morph*ne has grown beyond nostalgia, carving new sonic landscapes
while staying true to the moody, intoxicating essence of their predecessor.
Their live performances are a hypnotic blend of Morph*ne originals, deep blues, African
rhythms, and psychedelic rock that pushes boundaries while honouring the experimental spirit
that Sandman championed.
With Fear & Fantasy, Vapors of Morph*ne embraces both the past and the future. Featuring both
Deupree and Arey on drums, the album recalls Morph*ne’s final masterpiece, The Night, while
incorporating lush new textures, electric baritone sax, and haunting two-string slide bass. It’s
proof that while Morph*ne’s original chapter may have ended, the story is far from over.
Contrary to common belief, Morph*ne wasn’t named for the drug but for Morpheus, the Greek
god of dreams. But Vapors of Morph*ne? Their music is the kind of intoxicating, transportive
experience that lingers long after the last note, no prescription required.
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Joining Vapors Of Morph*ne on all shows (except Gumball Fest) is Melbourne based guitarist,
singer-songwriter, Jeb Cardwell. Jeb plays guitar as part of Kasey Chambers' band and as a solo
act has opened for legendary icons Steve Earle and Tony Joe White.
Jeb’s ability to effortlessly blend laid-back vibes with raw authenticity, all while showcasing his
mastery of the guitar is the perfect pairing with VoM. An enthralling sonic experience full of
captivating and irresistibly catchy grooves.
Jeb's 2022 debut solo album, My Friend Defiance, was described by Rhythms Magazine as “an
album that carries with it the poise and assuredness that comes from two decades of playing,
writing and singing with the best of them.”
Experience Vapors Of Morph*ne this Autumn at the following venues.
TOUR DATES
April / May 2025
Sun, April 27: Gumball Fest, Hunter Valley
Wed, April 30: Crowbar, Sydney
Thurs, May 1: Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
Fri, May 2: Theatre Royal, Castlemaine Vic
Sat, May 3: Vinnies Dive Bar, Gold Coast
Sun, May 4: Crowbar, Brisbane
Tickets available from
www.bigapachee.com.au/batours
Event Venue
Theatre Royal, Castlemaine,VIC,Australia
