New Single by Stegosaurus Sex Party
Review
When I told you about the Stegosaurus Sex Party EP ‘Helicopter Party Trick' in July 2023, I picked out the track "Wanking to Natural Disasters" as a high point. Its provocative title leads you into a serious matter: the repugnant spectacle of armchair observers who get aroused by the suffering of others as relayed via the media: especially television. Sometimes they try & mask their prurient interest by claiming to be viewing out of compassion but it doesn't fool this band. I guess, looking at the various online television schedules, one might also consider consumers of war porn & true crime as coming close to where they are aiming. And as for the companies churning all this emotionally dubious product out….
I'm pleased therefore to report that the band have released the track as a single today: and not only is it available on a "name your price" basis via Bandcamp, but it's different to the EP version being a "Batley Frontier 1979 Petrol Bastard Remix"
The remix is by Ben from the Leeds-based techno-punk band/duo Petrol Bastard "which he did because he very wanted to and not 'cause he needed to whore his talents for a fairground organ".
Well he certainly threw his heart & talents into the remix as unlike many other remixes I listen to, he's radically revised the sound (and it clocks in at thirteen seconds longer too) without detracting from the piquant thrust of the original. Stegosaurus Sex Party fans: you really do need both versions.
Unsurprisingly, Ben's taken the song in an electro-punk direction: which works just fine. Is it just a remix? I suspect new overdubs but I'm not quibbling. The new setting of the bass in particular is worth checking it out for & it's hardly surprising that the band want him to work his magic on all their songs in future as he makes them "at least 69% better".
The sound is perhaps more listener-friendly as regards discerning the words (though even if the words can be heard, if they are as obscure as those on "Beanz" it doesn't always solve every conundrum) and injects variety into the full-on onslaught which presumably will continue to characterise live performances.
In terms of the latter, I'm pleased that after the frustrations the band shared with me when I started reviewing them, relating to insufficient local opportunities, more promoters are showcasing their talents: for example you can catch them on 9th November at the free ‘No Peace' event at Leamington's Fusilier organised by Louis Scheuer of the sadly now defunct Hedcheese.
