Biography
David McComb, the late frontman of the Triffids, possessed vocals marked by the same depth and passion associated with Nick Cave as well as lyrics that reflected Leonard Cohen’s poetic insight, yet these traits never translated into commercial success. Born February 17, 1962, in Perth, Australia, he was the son of a plastic surgeon and a geneticist. While still in high school McComb formed his first band, Dalsy, which would later develop into the Triffids. After finishing secondary education he enrolled at Curtin University. The Triffids released their debut single, “Stand Up,” in 1980. The following year McComb relocated to Sydney, Australia, with the group, and they issued their first album, Treeless Plain. He went on to record five further LPs with the Triffids, each receiving strong critical notice without propelling the band to stardom, so the Triffids disbanded in 1989. McComb subsequently joined the Blackeyed Susans while also attempting to launch a solo career. In 1991 he supplied a track to the Leonard Cohen tribute album I’m Your Fan. His own solo debut, Love of Will, appeared in 1994. During a visit to New York McComb fell ill, returned promptly to Australia, and was placed on a waiting list for heart transplants. A donor emerged in 1995, and he underwent a successful operation. Hospitalized on January 30, 1999, after a car accident, McComb died on February 2, 1999, while still recovering.
Albums
