What makes Raised by Bats by Aurelio Voltaire notable?

Raised by Bats received positive reviews from fans and critics alike, reinforcing Voltaire's status within the dark cabaret genre. The album's title track gained particular attention for its catchy chorus and elaborate themes, contributing to Voltaire's reputation as an engaging storyteller. Additionally, the album helped to sustain interest in the dark cabaret movement during a time when alternative music was evolving rapidly. Released in 2014, Raised by Bats marked Aurelio Voltaire's return after a four-year hiatus following his album, It’s Alive! This album further solidified his role as a prominent figure in the dark cabaret scene, showcasing his unique ability to fuse humor and horror. At this point in his career, he had already built a dedicated fanbase through previous works and live performances.

Who is Raised by Bats for?

Raised by Bats works well if you're into steady mid-tempo narrative flow, whimsical dark carnival atmosphere and theatrical storytelling with depth.

How many songs are on Raised by Bats?

Raised by Bats has 10 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Raised by Bats

Aurelio Voltaire · 2014

45 min · 10 tracks · dark cabaret

A darkly theatrical blend of gothic melodies and macabre storytelling that invites listeners into a whimsical, eerie carnival atmosphere.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Raised by Bats — The title track encapsulates the album's playful yet eerie ethos, with an infectious melody that draws listeners into Voltaire's darkly whimsical world.
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Oh My Goth — This track stands out for its tongue-in-cheek commentary on goth culture, blending humor with catchy hooks that resonate with both fans and newcomers.
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The Devil and Mr. Jones — A standout narrative piece that weaves a captivating story about temptation and morality, showcasing Voltaire's skillful storytelling through song.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends theatrical storytelling with gothic melodies, creating a distinct dark cabaret experience.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, including strings and piano, enhancing the gothic aesthetic.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo narrative flow
whimsical dark carnival atmosphere
theatrical storytelling with depth
engaging lyrical exploration
for late-night listens

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced tracks
seek straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2014, Raised by Bats marked Aurelio Voltaire's return after a four-year hiatus following his album, It’s Alive! This album further solidified his role as a prominent figure in the dark cabaret scene, showcasing his unique ability to fuse humor and horror. At this point in his career, he had already built a dedicated fanbase through previous works and live performances.
Stylistic neighbors: The Tiger Lillies· Lydia Lunch· Sopor Aeternus & the Ensemble of Shadows