(I Thought I Heard A) Heartbeat

Little documented trivia exists specifically about "(I Thought I Heard A) Heartbeat" from The Inmates' 1980 album Shot In The Dark, but the song captures the raw, gritty energy of the British pub rock scene. Featured on their second album, produced by Vic Maile, the track is a high-octane blend of rhythm and blues with a punk edge, characteristic of the band’s style. While no direct interviews or social media posts from the band discuss the song’s creation, its inclusion on the 13-track LP alongside covers like "Some Kinda Wonderful" suggests it was a staple in their live sets, likely energizing crowds at venues like London’s The Venue. The song’s driving beat and raw vocals, led by Bill Hurley, reflect the band’s commitment to reviving 1960s R&B with a modern twist, a hallmark of their early 1980s output.

The Inmates formed in 1977, rising from the ashes of The Flying Tigers, a North London pub rock outfit. The band—Bill Hurley (vocals), Peter Gunn (guitar), Tony Oliver (guitar), Ben Donnelly (bass), and Eddie (drums)—found their groove in the sweaty, beer-soaked pubs of London’s music scene. Their big break came with a 1979 cover of The Standells’ "Dirty Water," which hit number 51 in the U.S. and led to their debut album, First Offence, on Radar Records. This success was fueled by their relentless touring and ability to channel the raw energy of American R&B and garage rock, filtered through a distinctly British lens. By the time Shot In The Dark was released in 1980, The Inmates had solidified their reputation as a live act, with Hurley’s soulful voice and the band’s tight instrumentation drawing comparisons to Dr. Feelgood and early Rolling Stones.

The band faced challenges, notably when Hurley suffered a breakdown around 1981, briefly stepping away. Barrie Masters of Eddie and the Hot Rods filled in, keeping the band afloat until Hurley’s return. Despite lineup shifts, The Inmates have endured, with four of the original five members still active as of 2013, particularly in continental Europe. Their longevity speaks to their cult following, built on a foundation of gritty performances and a knack for blending original tracks with well-chosen covers. In 2022, guitarist Peter Gunn released a solo album, Life Savings, under Peter Gunn & the Neatbloods, showing the band’s creative spark remains alive.

The Inmates maintain a modest online presence. Their official website is not explicitly listed in recent sources, but fans can connect through social media. The band’s Facebook page shares updates on tours and releases, while their Instagram offers glimpses of live shows and behind-the-scenes moments. On X, they engage with fans, posting about gigs and vinyl reissues. Fan communities are sparse, but the Inmates Fan Group on Facebook is a hub for Zoo Freaks and others to discuss the band’s music, share rare vinyl finds, and organize meetups at European gigs. These platforms keep the band’s legacy alive for a niche but dedicated audience.