Eve Libertine, the enigmatic frontwoman of Crass, never shied away from controversy with her provocative lyrics and uncompromising stage presence. In fact, she revels in the notion that her music remains as incendiary today as it was during the band's heyday in the 1970s.
The new album, Live at the Horse Hospital, showcases Libertine's unyielding passion for performance art, experimental soundscapes, and earthy ritual. Her operatic vocals soar like a soothsayer foretelling an apocalyptic reckoning, leaving listeners both unsettled and invigorated. One can't help but wonder if this unapologetic intensity has mellowed with age – the answer is a resounding no.
Growing up in the 1970s, Libertine was drawn to Crass's radical politics and avant-garde sound, which drew inspiration from punk, post-punk, and even world music. The band's notorious anti-establishment stance led to numerous run-ins with the law, including a high-profile obscenity charge brought against one of their tracks.
The 1981 track "Bata Motel" sparked outrage over its graphic depiction of female desire under patriarchal oppression – accusations of sadomasochistic pornography were levied. Despite being seized from record shops and facing fines, the song remains an unflinching critique of societal norms.
Libertine's stance on feminism has evolved over time, moving away from a rigid label that can be co-opted by those in power. She believes ideologies often stifle true growth and understanding, advocating for a more nuanced approach – one that acknowledges humanity beneath the armor of dogma.
In her quest to express the complexities of anger, compassion, and love, Libertine continues to forge a path unafraid to challenge conventional norms. Her art is a testament to the enduring power of resistance and the human desire for connection in the face of chaos. As she once sang: "I study myself in your reflection, and put it to rights with savage correction."
The new album, Live at the Horse Hospital, showcases Libertine's unyielding passion for performance art, experimental soundscapes, and earthy ritual. Her operatic vocals soar like a soothsayer foretelling an apocalyptic reckoning, leaving listeners both unsettled and invigorated. One can't help but wonder if this unapologetic intensity has mellowed with age – the answer is a resounding no.
Growing up in the 1970s, Libertine was drawn to Crass's radical politics and avant-garde sound, which drew inspiration from punk, post-punk, and even world music. The band's notorious anti-establishment stance led to numerous run-ins with the law, including a high-profile obscenity charge brought against one of their tracks.
The 1981 track "Bata Motel" sparked outrage over its graphic depiction of female desire under patriarchal oppression – accusations of sadomasochistic pornography were levied. Despite being seized from record shops and facing fines, the song remains an unflinching critique of societal norms.
Libertine's stance on feminism has evolved over time, moving away from a rigid label that can be co-opted by those in power. She believes ideologies often stifle true growth and understanding, advocating for a more nuanced approach – one that acknowledges humanity beneath the armor of dogma.
In her quest to express the complexities of anger, compassion, and love, Libertine continues to forge a path unafraid to challenge conventional norms. Her art is a testament to the enduring power of resistance and the human desire for connection in the face of chaos. As she once sang: "I study myself in your reflection, and put it to rights with savage correction."
but is that really progress? i mean, she used to be part of a band that got fined for obscenity and now she's all about nuance? 
it feels like the same message just wrapped in different packaging. what's changed? did i miss something? want some evidence before i get on board with this whole "evolved stance" thing 
! She's still pushing boundaries and refusing to be silenced. Her music is like a wildflower – unpredictable and untamed 
. I'm fascinated by her evolution as an artist, she's no longer just about the shock value, but about exploring the complexities of human emotions 
. And that live performance energy? MIND.BLOWN! 
like its been 40 yrs but her energy is still so infectious!! i love how she evolved as a person & artist tho, not afraid to speak truth to power while also being open to nuance...her commitment to using art as a form of resistance is truly inspiring 
she's not afraid to get raw and real about feminism, politics, and human emotions...I love how she's evolved her stance over time and now focuses on nuance rather than rigid labels 
any fan of experimental punk or post-punk will be stoked by this album 
check it out on Spotify: 
. What I love most about her is how she tackles tough topics with such raw emotion - it's not always easy listening, but it's always thought-provoking 
. And can we talk about that "Bata Motel" track? It's like she's still a force to be reckoned with 
. Libertine's music isn't just provocative, it's also super cathartic and beautiful - I need more of that in my life! 
. Crass was always about challenging the status quo, and that spirit hasn't faded for Libertine either 
.
- it's like she's saying we need to question the norms that restrict us.
. Her music is all about expression and resistance, but also love and compassion 
.
what do u guys think about her new album tho??
. I'm a fan for life, Eve! 
. And I love how she's not afraid to push boundaries and challenge people's expectations. Like, who else would make an album called "Live at the Horse Hospital"? 
It's like she's saying, "I'm not messing around here." But seriously, it's awesome that she's still got that spark, even after all these years. She's proof that you can be a true artist and still have a message to share 
.
. The way she blends politics and personal feelings is so refreshing, no more just shouting slogans, but actually exploring what that means for us as humans 
i mean she's still as intense and passionate about her music as ever, but in a good way you feel? like she's not afraid to get real and speak truth to power. i love how she's evolved on feminism too, it's all about nuance and understanding now instead of just labelin it. anyway, the album is fire 
gotta give it a listen ASAP 