"Live at the X-Ray Cafe" is a captivating live album by the experimental music collective Smegma, released on 18 November 2016 via Voodoo Doughnut Recordings. This brief yet intense 32-minute record captures the raw energy and improvisational spirit of Smegma's live performances, blending genres such as free jazz, noise rock, drone, and experimental music into a cohesive and chaotic whole.
The album features two extended tracks, recorded live on 13 February 1993 and 17 February 1994, respectively. These performances showcase the collective's unique approach to music, characterised by its dissonant harmonies, unpredictable structures, and unorthodox instrumentation. The ensemble features a rotating lineup of musicians, including notable performers such as Burned Mind, Myrtle Tickner, and Michael Lastra, among others.
"Live at the X-Ray Cafe" is a testament to Smegma's enduring influence on the experimental music scene. The album's limited edition vinyl release, pressed on cloudy-clear transparent vinyl and hand-numbered on the back cover, is a collectible item for fans of avant-garde and noise music. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Smegma or a curious newcomer, this album offers a thrilling glimpse into the collective's chaotic and unpredictable world.