Ben Lee // The Rebirth Of Venus

What is a Ben Lee split-mp3? In the venerable tradition of the vinyl split-7" single, our split-mp3's contain two songs - one an unreleased and absolutely exclusive track by Ben, the other by an artist of Ben's choosing.

Our first three split-mp3s are still available. The links are at the bottom of this page.

This month's MP3

1. The Action Suits - I'm Fine
2. Ben Lee - That Ain't Bad

That Ain't Bad (Ratcat)

Ben Lee -- Guitar and Vocals
Recorded Live in Sydney Australia, May 10, 1999

That Ain't Bad is a cover of a Ratcat song. Ben says:

"hearing ratcat's 'that aint bad' for the first time, at 13 years old, was a revelation. it might have been my first exposure to anything remotely 'underground'.

i was confused by its sensitivity and use of melody juxtaposed with the chainsaw guitars and huge drum sound. the only musical reference point i could think of was transvision vamp, who were a popular band, but this seemed much more real. as the song became a freak hit in australia, and i read interviews with the band, it became clear that there was a whole scene of bands in sydney making music like this. the hummingbirds, the plunderers, the hard-ons, were all making the best music i had never heard. and virtually on my doorstep.

when i played in sydney last year, i definately became aware that my record had crossed-over to the mainstream in a similar way. australian kids were buying my record that had no idea where i came from musically. it felt right to cover 'that aint bad' live. i think people got it."

Written by Eric Reynolds
Produced by Zack Aubrey & Andy Schmidt
Mixed to DAT from 4-Track by Mr. Steve Fisk

The Action Suits Were:
Eric Reynolds -- Rhythm Guitar and Vocals
Andy Schmidt -- Bass
Chris Jacobs -- Drums
Demian Johnston -- Lead Guitar

All proceeds donated to the Humphrey Muskie Preservation Society
Special thanks to Mr. Ben Lee, Patron of the Arts

Click here for an exhaustive history of The Action Suits...

We'll have more exclusive downloads on a regular basis. Some will go away as quickly as they arrive - to be sure you don't miss one, why not subscribe to our mailing list below while your mp3 downloads, and you'll be the first to know!