Circus Mort
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1979 |
| Defunct | 1981 |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
| Products | Music recordings, live performances |
Circus Mort was a post-punk ensemble originating from New York City in 1979. The group featured future Swans leader Michael Gira on vocals, guitarist Rick Oller, bassist Dan Braun, keyboardist Josh Braun, and drummer Angelo Pudignano. Jonathan Kane, who later joined Swans as well, became the band's third drummer. Circus Mort issued a single self-titled EP through Labor Records before their breakup in 1981.
History
Initially called Metal Envelope, the band’s earliest formation included Don Christensen handling bass duties. In September 1979, twin siblings Josh and Dan Braun became members, followed by Pudignano joining after answering an advertisement in the Village Voice. Toward the end of 1979, they recorded two songs—"Require Require" and "Working for Pleasure"—at Sorcerer Sound Studios, which drew the attention of promoter Jim Fouratt. He booked them to perform at Hurrah in February 1980 as the opening act for Snatch.
Following Pudignano's exit, Mike Pedulla assumed drumming responsibilities. Throughout 1980, the band performed extensively at various New York venues until Pedulla left and Jonathan Kane stepped in as drummer. Circus Mort signed with Labor Records and laid down demo tracks "Children Remember" and "Yellow Light" at Sorcerer Sound. They later recorded additional material with producer Peter Ivers at Minot Sound in White Plains, New York.
Their initial concert after recording sessions was a support slot for Bauhaus in early 1981; although this appearance was filmed, it has not been officially released. Their last live show took place in Boston alongside The Neats before the group dissolved.
After Circus Mort disbanded, Gira and Kane went on to establish Swans. Dan Braun briefly joined Swans and participated in a live recording at CBGB that was issued as Body to Body, Job to Job. Kane also collaborated with avant-garde composers Rhys Chatham and La Monte Young, while Gira later created The Angels of Light and founded Young God Records.