The Deadly Syndrome

The Deadly Syndrome

The Deadly Syndrome are an indie rock group from Los Angeles, active from 2006 to 2013. The band consists of Chris Richard, William Etling, Mike Hughes and Jesse Hoy.

Formation and early years

The group forms around a shared house life and a loose, DIY approach to making music. Instruments are scattered around the house, including cheap old organs found on Craigslist, alongside guitars, pianos, keyboards and violins. The members work ordinary jobs while writing songs constantly, and their early period is marked by frequent shows and a chaotic, spirited live reputation.

Live shows and style

The Deadly Syndrome develop a stage presence described by crowded, high-energy performances, with audiences reacting strongly to their sets. Their shows include cardboard cut-outs and have the feel of small festivals. The band’s sound is associated with indie and indie rock, and their work also fits the acoustic rock tag attached to them.

Later development and Nolens Volens

After about two years, the band’s circumstances change as the members begin thinking about financial stability, family life, reliable transport and health insurance. Rather than splitting up, they move their equipment into a cabin in the woods and start again. After roughly nine months, they finish the album Nolens Volens. The record is presented as a more self-assured step forward, with songs and production that build on the band’s earlier sound while leaving more space in the arrangements. It is also linked to themes of growing up and balancing youth with responsibility.

Other work and song references

The band’s earlier period includes a song called Ortolan, which is mentioned as a possible model for continuing in the same venues and with similar material. That reference places Nolens Volens as a point of change rather than a simple continuation of the band’s first phase.