Damien "Damo" Morris joined the 27 club on December 19, 2007. The cause of death is recorded as: Traffic collision (bus)
Damien "Damo" Morris was a prominent member and vocalist of the Australian deathcore band, The Red Shore, who tragically lost his life in a bus wreck on December 19, 2007. Born on May 22, 1980, Damo contributed significantly to the band's music and left an indelible mark on the metal scene.
The Red Shore was formed in 2004 by original members Richard Johnson and Jamie Hope. After a brief search for a singer, Damien Morris joined the group, and they began to draw inspiration from bands such as Hate Eternal, Devourment, Decapitated, and Behemoth. The band's debut EP, "Salvaging What's Left," was released in 2006, showcasing their raw and aggressive sound. Damo's powerful vocals were a pivotal part of the band's identity, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
Tragically, on December 19, 2007, The Red Shore was traveling to a tour date when their minibus veered off the Pacific Highway just north of Coffs Harbour. The accident took the lives of Damo and their driver/merchandiser, Andy Milner. Fans from around the world were devastated by the news, flooding the band's MySpace page with tributes to the fallen members.
Following the accident, Jamie Hope moved up to vocals from bass, fulfilling Morris' wish that he take over should anything happen to him. The Red Shore continued touring and released their debut album, "Unconsecrated," in 2008. This release showcased a more refined and polished sound, reflecting the band's growth since their EP. The album was the first to be released through Roadrunner Australia and featured Chase Butler as the third vocalist following Hope's departure from the band in 2009.
Damien "Damo" Morris' legacy extends beyond his time with The Red Shore. His powerful vocals and raw energy inspired a generation of metal musicians, leaving a lasting impact on the deathcore scene. In 2019, The Red Shore reformed and played two performances, but no news regarding new music has been disclosed yet. Regardless, Morris' memory lives on through his music, inspiring fans both old and new.