25 years ago today (7/3/99), Mark Sandman of Morphine, the revelatory frontman/bassist with jazzy old-world performance instincts, died on stage. That final Morphine show occurred in Giardini del Principe in Palestrina, Lazio, Italy, at the age of 46 and was the result of a heart attack. His death has been attributed to heavy stress and the temperature of over 99 °F (37 °C) on the night of his death. Sandman was known for his deep, distinctive voice and innovative approach to music, particularly his use of a two-string slide bass, which became a signature element of Morphine’s sound. The band’s music was a unique blend of rock, jazz, and blues, often described as “low rock” due to its deep, bass-heavy sound and dark, atmospheric vibe that still sends chills today. Watch the last interview with Sandman – two days before his sudden death..
