Bat Nouveau

Bat Nouveau is an Australian deathrock and post-punk ensemble formed in Brisbane circa 2008. Originally known as Thirteen Bats, the duo of Batbones and Corvus has become a pivotal name in the modern gothic revival.

Their sound identity is a sophisticated synthesis of early 1980s UK gothic rock (citing influences like Christian Death and Joy Division) and the more eccentric, theatrical elements of the Batcave scene. A defining characteristic of their production is the use of the omnichord, which provides a unique harmonic shimmer against the aggressive, tribal percussion and prominent, melodic basslines. Throughout their career arc, from early releases like Dust to the more polished Metamorphoses, they have maintained a commitment to the DIY ethics of punk while exploring increasingly complex arrangements. Critically, they are lauded for their ability to evoke a specific historical aesthetic without falling into parody, positioning them as peers to contemporary acts like Horror Vacui and Altar de Fey. They occupy a vital space in the global dark alternative scene, bridging the gap between traditional gothic rock and modern experimental post-punk.