Hex (Red Vinyl) RSD 2023 edition

Poison Girls ‘Hex’ was first recorded and released in 1979. The recordings were produced by Penny Rimbaud and the band was led by vocalist Vi Subversa. Poison Girls came up on the punk wave, but Vi was obviously not your typical frontwoman. She was a 44-year-old mother, singing about life as a single parent. A unique and powerful voice both then and now.

The album was recorded live in the studio, with precious few overdubs. This creates an immediacy and urgency to the performances. It bristles with the energy of anger, paranoia, hopelessness, helplessness, mental fragility and full-on anguish. Vi Subversa took no prisoners.

The stunning gatefold sleeve contains new insightful liner notes by founding guitarist Richard Famous. In addition, an insert is included with complete song lyrics and rare archival band photos overseen by the Poison Girls bass player, Bernhardt Rebours.

This vinyl format of ‘Hex’ is a 2023 Record Store Day exclusive. It is an 8 song 12“ LP, to be played at 45 RPM, and pressed on Blood Red vinyl.

This record, from 1979, was streets ahead of its time.

Is it as important and relevant to 2023 as it was then?

Listen and learn. (btw, the answer is ‘yes’)