A new album titled 'Cocoon,' featuring previously unreleased recordings from the influential alt-rock band Morphine, is slated for release on December 4th. This collection emerges from archival sessions held in 1998, predating their final album, 'The Night,' which was released posthumously following the untimely passing of vocalist and bassist Mark Sandman in 1999. The project sees a meticulous restoration effort, with Sandman's life partner, Sabine Hrechdakian, collaborating with producers Paul Q. Kolderie and Sean Slade to transfer and remix the original tapes in 2023. Further enriching the album's sound, saxophonist Dana Colley has contributed new saxophone parts to three of its tracks, bridging the past and the present for a unique musical experience.
The album's namesake track, 'Cocoon,' made its debut on Thursday, showcasing the band's signature style. It commences with a deep, languid baritone saxophone groove that sets a melancholic yet inviting tone, leading into Sandman's intimate lyrics: 'Come on in to my cocoon, no one comes in except for you.' The song evokes a nocturnal, jazz-infused atmosphere, characteristic of smoky late-night venues. Listeners are treated to Morphine's renowned use of sonic space, allowing the saxophone, Sandman's distinctive vocals, and subtle embellishments like acoustic guitar, echoing cymbals, and distant piano to weave together a uniquely relaxed melody.
Sabine Hrechdakian reflected on the inspiration behind the album's title, explaining that 'Mark cherished both performing globally and retreating to his personal 'cocoon' at home.' She described their shared living and studio space as a constant hub of musical activity, with tapes running, friends visiting, and meals being prepared. The lyrics, she noted, express the emotional toll of touring and the joy of returning home. Hrechdakian also highlighted a recurring theme of space travel throughout the album, envisioning the 'cocoon' as a metaphorical spaceship for two, embarking on and returning from cosmic journeys.
The recording sessions for 'Cocoon' explored different instrumental arrangements, incorporating piano and additional drumming from friends and collaborators. However, Sandman eventually shifted his focus, leading to the development of 'The Night' album instead. While some of these tracks surfaced in various forms on bootlegs and the 2004 compilation 'Sandbox,' this official release presents them in a definitive and newly refined manner. Saxophonist Dana Colley described the experience of re-engaging with these recordings years later as 'surreal,' likening it to 'having one foot in the past and one in the present, with my saxophone bridging the gap,' as he added contemporary elements to the vintage tracks.
Morphine, active for a decade until Sandman's passing, released four studio albums during his lifetime. Their 1993 album, 'Cure for Pain,' gained significant traction in the indie music scene, with tracks like 'Buena' and 'Thursday' becoming college radio staples. The band's music has also been featured in films such as 'Spanking the Monkey' and, more recently, in popular television series like 'Beef' and 'Euphoria.' The upcoming 'Cocoon' album also features never-before-published photographs and insightful liner notes penned by essayist Hanif Abdurraqib.
The tracklist for 'Cocoon' is as follows: 1. 'Tomorrow,' 2. 'Wig,' 3. 'Patience,' 4. 'Spaceman Charm,' 5. 'Justine,' 6. 'Moons of Jupiter,' 7. 'Cocoon,' 8. 'Pretty Face.'
This upcoming release from Morphine offers fans a poignant journey back to the band's distinctive sound and creative process. Featuring newly mixed and enhanced archival recordings, 'Cocoon' provides a fresh perspective on Mark Sandman's songwriting and the band's unique instrumentation, showcasing their enduring legacy in alternative rock. The contributions from original band members and the collaborative efforts in bringing these lost tracks to light highlight the dedication to preserving and honoring Morphine's artistic vision, ensuring that their innovative sound continues to resonate with new and old audiences alike.
