You could be forgiven for dismissing the Cocteau Twins as mere pretty-sounding fluff. That’s kind of what they are.
They take atmospherics to a new level. The guitar is put through so many effects pedals and boards it is hardly recognizable. The drums are machine-made. And the lyrics are, in fact, often gibberish. That’s description, not insult—singer Elisabeth Fraser uses her voice like an instrument, frequently without even singing actual words. And the sum total can be absolutely captivating.
Indeed, the Cocteau Twins are also one of the most distinctive and influential bands of the 1980s. Shoegaze and dream pop flow directly from their semi-ambient sound.
Playlist 1
This LP-length playlist covers their early years with singer Elisabeth Fraser, guitarist Robin Guthrie, and bassist Will Heggie. The presence of the Heggie’s propulsive bass riffs in these releases makes it distinct in the Twins’ catalogue. Often neglected by Cocteau Twins fans and critics alike, this work ranks among their best, in my opinion. It’s more rhythmic and hook-laden, and the guitars shriek more than they shimmer—sheer post-punk bliss.
Playlist 2
The CD-length playlist 2 focuses on the band’s first works after the departure of Heggie, as Fraser and Guthrie continued on as a duo, later adding bassist and keyboardist Simon Raymonde. This period is often considered their finest.
Playlist 3
The final, CD-length playlist includes highlights from the band’s later years. Pretty, dreamy, ethereal—here is where they first scored some moderate mainstream success in the U.S.
Cover Art:
- Treasure: Source, Discogs.com
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