The Baby Seals Release “Live At The Portland Arms Supporting Lydia Lunch” Album

When The Baby Seals supported the legendary Lydia Lunch at Cambridge, UK’s Portland Arms, they had no idea the show was being recorded. An absolute influence and creator within the No Wave scene, Lydia Lunch has spent her career anti-commercial, working independently of large record labels, and the band were understandably in awe. As Kerry from The Baby Seals recalls, introducing herself over a whiskey led to an unforgettable exchange. When she nervously asked whether Lydia would rather be left alone, the reply came: “If I Want you to fuck off I’ll tell you to fuck off”. Her wit and pace are so sharp and quick, she’s a razor, but also with warmth and a feeling that you’re in safe hands. An unusual mix. There’s an energy around her that carried into the gig itself.

As the punters packed in, the band knew it was going to be a special night. Around 72 hours later, they discovered their set had been recorded. Probably better they didn’t know! A few mistakes but nothing too shoddy, and the energy had carried through to the recordings. Mixed by sound engineer Joe Nicholson, the resulting album captures The Baby Seals doing what they do best, playing live. Live At The Portland Arms Supporting Lydia Lunch is now available through Trapped Animal Records, the album also includes the studio version of their latest single, Irene, as a bonus track.