SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: SEX BEAT – LIVE AT THE BATCAVE AND OTHER DARK PLACES

SEX BEAT
LIVE AT THE BATCAVE AND OTHER DARK PLACES
CLEOPATRA RECORDS

London, UK-based Goth band, Sex Beat, managed to release only one single while they were together in the 1980s, the now classic “Pump”, which was all but ignored when it was released on ABC Records in 1984. Yet, they achieved a well-received reputation due to their live performances. Their live performances were legendary. Live at the Batcave and Other Dark Places is aptly titled as it is a collection of live performances from this overlooked band.

The trio that was Sex Beat performed at the legendary Batcave in London, among other venues, where they developed a very loyal albeit small following. Songs such as “Sweat” and “Here It Comes Again” go a long way in explaining why they were so loved. The songs are shots of energy, post punk, and a tinge of goth. The band is tight and exciting.

The album also includes their studio record from 1984, with “Sexbeat” and other demos. Interestingly, the studio version of “Pump” is not included, but a live version is part of the material. For the most part, the album sounds quite good.

Sex Beat was a band that never really got to reach their true potential. Live at the Batcave and Other Dark Places is almost like their long overdue debut album, and listening to them, one wonders what they could have accomplished. Live at the Batcave and Other Dark Places is a great album and is perfect for those who want to relive the mid-1980s goth/punk days, or even learn a bit more about that genre of music.

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