Let's Explore Cocteau Twins!
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- Опубліковано 18 кві 2023
- Let's explore the ethereal and magical music of Cocteau Twins! In this video I rank their studio albums, show a few compilations I recommend, rank their eps from 1982-1990, and finally, I share my top 20 songs!
Are you obsessed with Cocteau Twins like I am? Let me know what your favorite albums and songs are! At the very end of my video I typed out my complete lists of favorite albums, eps, and 20 songs for your convenience!
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I'm Hanna, and thanks for watching! Like my video? Please subscribe and give me a thumbs up! I make all of these videos for fun and to interact with other vinyl addicts. This is my passion and hobby!
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Thanks to the viewers who pointed out that it's "Tiny DYNAMINE" and not Dynamite! No joke, I honestly thought it was "Tiny Dynamite" this whole time. Perhaps I need an eye exam! I'm only human and make plenty of mistakes! 😂
Whatttttttt? That Tiny Dynamite was the super rare Zambian pressing with the Dynamine spelled as Dynamite!
It's ok, we'll forgive you.........this time 😆
🎶I’m only human, born to make, mistakes🎶
🤣😂😉😉 we all do i write lena lovich instead of lene lovich lol
I did the same thing for years. I also thought "Donimo" was "Domino' for about 15 years.
We got married in 1985. I walked to the church. Everybody had left the house and before I left, I played “Sugar Hiccup”. I stood and thought of a Viking funeral as the ship is set on fire and it is pushed out to sea. (We are still married by the way).
However, there is a song that always makes the hairs on my neck stand up when I hear it. “Calfskin Smack” from “Milk and Kisses”. About a minute into the song there is a chord change and she sings “Ooo la la la la la”. When this part is repeated later in the song there is a great guitar solo. Just fantastic. For me, this is more than just a great Cocteau Twins song.
We lived in Ireland in the 1990s and we had a Dutch friend who said, “If you like the Cocteau Twins” you will like everything they did, because it is all great.”
Many thanks for the video, it has reminded me of some happy times and some great music.
Thank you for sharing that very sweet story of playing Sugar Hiccup on the day of your wedding! Congrats on still being married, as well! Calfskin Smack does have a great, soaring guitar solo. Incredible track!
That's true that Cocteau Twins never released any junk. I'm just in awe of all that they accomplished. So glad you enjoyed this video, thank you!
Loved the Cocteau Twins for decades. Love all their stuff. The Itchy Glowbo Blow and Blue Bell Knoll does it for me
Nice overview. I got into Cocteau Twins around the time of Treasure, and remained a fan. through the rest of their career. It has been way too long since I've sat down with their music and that's something I need to remedy. Thanks for reminding me how great they were!
Can I also give a little mention to This Mortal Coil - "Song To The Siren".
It is actually a cover of a Tim Buckley song, However, I believe that it is recorded with Robin and Elizabeth from The Cocteau Twins. I cannot tell you how beautiful this is and how much it was loved at the time. Timeless.
4AD even did a video for it
That is a GORGEOUS song, as well as the video. If I could only find It'll All End in Tears on vinyl! Cheers!
I have that one, purchased as an original in 1984.
Weird fact… David Lynch tried to acquire the rights to this version of this song for Blue Velvet.. but it wasn’t in the budget. 😮
Much to my eternal shame, I'm unfamiliar with this group. I thought I heard everything!?!?! This is why I watch your channel. Thank you for your time!!
No need to feel shame, especially the "eternal" type. One of the best things about music for me is the quest of discovery, for both past releases up to the present. There's always more out there that has mysteriously alluded me for years and years.. Anyway, hope you like The Cocteau Twins.
@@toddhill7483 Thanks!! I'm listening to them as I write... Peace
I’ve never heard of them either,Hannah is always showing me groups I never heard of
Every artist is unfamiliar at some point. Think of it as a gift that you can hear them in a brand new way. Pair some special moments with them and savor the music like you would fine cuisine or unique drink.
I would recommend going slowly in their discography with some "palate cleansers of other music" It's the way approached CT. I am glad I did that as opposed to a music binge.
I'm so very glad I can bring attention to these groups that deserve more praise! Happy sampling with Cocteau Twins! It's quite the journey! Cheers!
I love Head over heels. Musette and drums is one of the most astonishing pieces of music I have ever heard. And as David Rogers mentions a bit further down This mortal coil with the cover of "Song to the siren" is absolutely perfection from Elisabeth Fraser. What a vocal performance
Thanks for watching, Thomas! I agree completely with your words about Musette and Drums. I was in awe the first time I heard it. Ahhhh, an abundance of talent in this band! See you next time!
great lists! thanks for noting the "Lullabies to Violaine" comps, those mid-80s EPs are essential cocteau twins imo
Thanks, Johnny! Yes, those Lullabies to Violaine CD compilations are so worth having. I've listened to Vol. 1 the most. Nice to have all those EPs in this convenient package! Cheers!
Ivo off Treasure I first heard off an NME sample in 87. And I was hooked it was literally mind blowing how the whole album just washed over me and Liz Frazor’s vocals just soars into heaven..❤
Thanks for sharing your experience with Treasure. It truly is unlike anything else! I only wish I heard it when it first came out. Love that we can discover this music at any time and it doesn't go anywhere!
First time I listened to Pink Opaque, mid 80’s, I didn’t get it. I put the cassette back in my tape chest and forgot about it. Then, I listened it again a year later and got swept off my feet. Sometimes you have to be ready to be taken to somewhere new.
The Pink Opaque is a solid collection of tunes! It's great to revisit albums that we've forgotten or neglected. Thanks for the comment!
Hi Hannah. Cocteau Twins are one of my top 10 bands. It's so hard to rank and pick favorites, so kudos to you! They are one of the few artists that I stuck with through all their transitions. The music is so dreamy, and Liz is like from a higher realm! I also love the tee.
Thanks for this video. I got into listening to The Cocteau Twins a little while ago and and for the past few months I have had Head over Heels on repeat. I then went into a record store and they were playing that album and both the owner and I both agreed it was an under rated album.
Thanks for popping by, Jason! Cocteau Twins fans unite! Head Over Heels on repeat, eh? That was me all last year. That album is so special! I appreciate you sharing your love for that album in this comment! Cheers!
Cocteau Twins is one of my fave bands. ( I was a Cure, Siouxsie, Joy Division, Smiths- kid, became a teenager in early 80s, lucky for me as this was a great time for music with new wave, synth pop and post punk) One of my fave Cocteau twins songs is The Spangle Maker. I love the build up during the first part and then it just opens up like a waterfall for 2nd half of song; pure bliss. I am very lucky to have bought most of these when they 1st came out on vinyl. I orig lived in Pittsburgh ( now NYC). It was the art work album covers that first drew me to them. You had to buy them at "underground record stores", not in a mall. In 1984, there was no radio station that played this type of music. I bought them blind based solely on the artwork- it was like striking gold. I have been lucky over then past year to pick up orig copy of Heaven or Las Vegas (as well as Milk & Kisses and Blue Bell Knoll- the reissues of these are great as well as they include 2nd album from rare Eps). ( I actually never cared for Heaven of Las Vegas when I first heard it, I got it in the lp box set reissue. Last year I found an OG copy and was blown away) My top 10 lp/ep (I am lucky to have all their vinyl lp/EP on vinyl OG and reissue- I may be missing 1 vinyl 12", late issues from Milk and Kisses , and I do not have any 7"....yet).
1. Victorialand, the OG 45rpm is the only pressing you need of this one. this is my summer go to lp
2. Treasure, IVO, Lorelei, and Donimo
3. The Spangle Maker EP,
4. Violin EP (absolutely love the song Alice),
5. Aikea-Guinea EP,
6 Blue Bell Knoll (Carolyn's Fingers is so awesome),
7. Sunburst and Snow-blind (love Sugar Hiccup)
8. Echos in a Shallow Bay, absolutely love Melonella)
9. Heaven or Las Vegas ,
10. Four-Calender Cafe (it was this album where they finally toured in Pittsburgh, and I got to see them in concert)
honorable mention is Loves Easy Tears EP
I just discovered your channel and LOVE it. I grew up in the '80s and lived for post-punk, especially Cocteau Twins. So happy to see you're such a fan of them as I am. I love shoegaze, jangle pop, post-punk, avant-garde and electronica. Keep up the great work!
The Pink Opaque is one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard.
The Pink Opaque was my introduction to the Twins, back in the 80s. They had me from the opening strains of Millimillinery, lights out, headphones on in my bedroom in Lakewood, Washington. Was so lucky to have seen them three times, including their glorious final Seattle concert where they stretched out Blue Bell Knoll into this cacophonous blast of sound that just wound around the audience like a warm blanket. Gorgeous then, gorgeous now.
Hey there, Danny! Thank you for watching this one! Appreciate you! The Pink Opaque is an awesome intro! The fact that you got to see them 3x is absolutely incredible! Their music lives on! Cheers!
Jason Lee, the actor and former pro skateboarder, published a photography book titled, In the Gold Rush Dust. 👍🏻
Thanks Hanna for reviewing the Cocteau Twins. I have most of their albums on old 4AD CDs and some 2001 Reissues. Love your Channel and all your videos. You're the most beautiful Alternative music ambassador.
Thank you, Ronny! Glad you own most of the Cocteau Twins albums on CD! I only have 3 on CD but being the crazy collector I'd like to pick up more on CD in the future. It's really nice to read that you love my channel. I appreciate you hanging around! Cheers!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert Thanks to you too for making this kind of videos about Post Punk, Jangle Pop, Shoegaze, Dream Pop, etc, etc.
@@ronnywilson2112 I appreciate it, thank you! I truly love these more obscure subgenres and it's been a pleasure sharing my joy for them with you all!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert Thanks, I love any content, review or documentary about 4AD and their early bands like This Mortal Coil, Breathless, Ultra Vivid Scene, Wolfgang Press, Clan Of Xymox, early Bauhaus, Colourbox, Throwing Muses, Belly, Red House Painters, etc... Sad that the label never be the same ince Ivo sell it to Warner/Beggars Banquet in 1999, like in the 80's and 90's for me that era are untouchable, I like a few modern artists from the label but not an entire generation of unique artists like it was.
Hi Hanna, hope all is well. Good video to start my morning. Take Care, Frank
Thanks, Frank! Always great to hear from you! Hope you had a wonderful day!
Heaven or Las Vegas is top for me…spent most of Christmas 1990 listening to it non stop…Frou Frou Foxes would be my favourite song of theirs…although like you say they are all great in some way. Thanks for another great video
Thank you for the lovely comment and sharing your adoration of Heaven or Las Vegas! A truly sublime album! Frou Frou Foxes is a very special ending track! Cocteau Twins forever!
Brilliant band and so underrated. I'd go for Victorialand and Treasure.
Thanks, Steven! Yes, the Treasure and Victorialand era was pure bliss! Cheers!
I first heard Liz Fraser’s voice in 1983 on MTV when their show London Calling played This Mortal Coil’s cover of Tim Buckley’s “Song to the Siren.” I had to immediately go out and buy the vinyl of TMC’s It’ll End in Tears. She also sang on “Another Day” from that album, and it was quite operatic. I followed up with purchasing my first Cocteau Twins album, Treasure, which then began a string of albums and EPs I got after that. Luckily for me, in the summer of 1984, I worked in Manhattan close to the downtown Tower Records, so I could peruse the stacks at my lunch hour. From their post-punk era, I quite enjoy “Hazel,” which is quite Siouxie-esque. I didn’t get to see them perform live until 1996, when they toured in support of Milk & Kisses. I saw Liz most recently on tour with Massive Attack in 2019, when they celebrated the 20th anniversary of their album Mezzanine. Since Treasure was my first experience with CT, I thought I’d mention that besides “Ivo” and “Lorelei,” I am still, to this day, mesmerized by their song”Otterley.” That one sounds like I would imagine Heaven is, with the angels all whispering.
4 calendar cafe is so underrated… I absolutely love this album. Pur is a masterpiece.
Very hard to select a favorite track but if I’d had to chose I’d say Blue Bell Knoll. There’s no other CT song that sounds like it. Chills every time.
Thank you Hannah! I’ve finally found a channel who I share their taste in music!
Someone special introduced me to Cocteau Twins while at university. Her fav was Treasure and it rubbed off on me. Feel so fortunate I got to see them live on the Heaven Or Las Vegas and Four Calendar Café tours. 😊
I'm thrilled that you watched my Cocteau Twins ranking! Thank you! You are VERY lucky that you had a chance to see them perform, and twice! Amazing!
Looking forward to this..
I hope you enjoy the rankings here! Thank you!!! ❤️
Hello Hanna. I'm not as big a fan of Cocteau Twins as many people. I discovered them in the 80s while working at a record store. And yes, Garlands was always my favorite followed by Head Over Heels. Maybe my love for Siouxsie and the sounds associated with The Banshees explains that. I love Elizabeth's voice of course and will probably revisit their albums, including the ep's you mentioned which I've never heard. Speaking of Siouxsie, I have my rankings at the ready! Off topic, but that Jesus and Mary Chain on display behind you really takes me back. (Barbed Wire Kisses) What a diverse collection of tracks. Love it! Thanks Hanna!
Hey there, Todd! Hope all is well! Ah, glad you already have your Siouxsie rankings prepared! I have some more work to do on that! I have changed the order of a few albums several times! Very cool that you noticed Barbed Wire Kisses behind me. I tried to display some bands that were in the same vein....of course Cocteau Twins are in a realm of their own, though! I think it's great that Garlands and Head Over Heels are your top 2! Catch ya later!
A little shout out to the short lived 4AD band Dif Juz. Robin Guthrie produced their second album Extractions (1985). Elisabeth Fraser delivered guest vocals. Dif Juz's sax player Richard Thomas can be heard on both Victorialand (1986) and The Moon And The Melodies (1986). Their music can be described as a bit more ambient and instrumental than the Cocteau Twins sound from the mid 80's. Dif Juz released also two EP's on 4AD in 1981 and a debut album on Red Flame in 1983.
That was great Hanna. I have always been looking for an entry point to Cocteau Twins.
Awesome! I hope this video was super helpful! Enjoy the magic of Cocteau Twins!
Such a cool and comprehensive snapshot of their work. When I'm in the mood I really enjoy this band a lot. There is so much artistry in every aspect of their work, from the album covers, and even the quirky song titles as you alluded to a couple of times; lots of "colors" both visual and sonic if you will.
Thank you, T! Truly appreciate you taking time out of your day to watch my vids! This one was a labor of love. They have become a top 10 favorite band for me, though. Totally agree with your "lots of colors" comment with them. They stand above so many others. What an influential, groundbreaking band.
Nice pick for your number one. I would have put it somewhere close to that.
Excellent to this day.
Thanks, Jason! I wasn't sure how the majority of viewers would react to my #1 pick but it's been positive! Never get sick of Head Over Heels! See you next time!
The simulated bell sound was made with the Yamaha DX7, which incidentally was also used on Do They Know It's Christmas and many other hits of the time.
Hi, thanks for the great video on CT! My all-time no. 1 Lp is also Head Over Heels, and it was part of my life's soundtrack; I caught it on BBC World Service/John Peel in Nov - Dec 1983 (shortwave). He played over half of the LP, and on his domestic Radio 1 program he played the entire LP minus Multifoiled (according to Peel Fandom site). It seems his favourite was From the Flagstones from the EP in parallel to the LP. He played it on Radio 1 at least 5 times in Nov-Dec 83 (documented on the same website). Just In case you haven't paid attention, 1/2 (5 tracks) of the LP is in 3/4 (6/8 I think) signature. Stunning LP.
Hi! Thank you for sharing your memories and experience with Head Over Heels! High five that it's your favorite, too! Ah, John Peel loving From the Flagstones - very cool tidbit! Cheers!
Very cool ranking Hanna, Blue Bell Knoll was the first album I heard by the Cocteaus so it's probably my fave. Nice OG pressings btw, I've been going down the same path with wanting original pressings.
Thank you, Rando! BBK for your #1 - excellent! Yeah, I was able to find some really good deals on a few of these originals, but some were definitely more spendy. Shoegaze on, my friend!
Amazing review! Have to agree with you on Head over heels being my favorite! Blue bell knoll and HOLV are right after. loves easy tears is easily my favorite EP from them.
Thanks for sharing your faves as well! It's great to have fellow Cocteau Twins fans here. I don't know anyone who knows about them here so it's great to connect with likeminded music folks on UA-cam! And that rules that Head Over Heels is your #1, too! YEEESSSS! :-)
Hi Hanna! Like you, my favourites change based on the day, season and/or mood. As of today:
9. Garlands
8. The Moon and the Melodies
7. Four Calendar Cafe
6. Victorialand
5. Milk and Kisses
4. Head Over Heels
3. Treasure
2. Heaven or Las Vegas
1. Blue Bell Knoll
Look forward to more deep dives :) :)
Excellent list here! I appreciate you sharing it! Yeah, that top 4...my order of those ones can change frequently! So happy to read you enjoyed this deep dive into CT's discography! Cheers!
We ❤ the Cocteau Twins 👍🙏
Excellent! Hope you like this ranking! ⭐️
💖🌹
Great vid! my intro was in 1994, university friends had BBK on cassette, then I slowly got practically everything they released plus the Robin Guthrie solo stuff, and Violet Indiana (collab with the "Mono" singer). For collectors, the 1990 box set of ep's is a nice item. Top song probably Aikea guinea 👍
Thanks for the comment! Ah, props to your university pals who introduced you to this band! I still need to check out Guthrie's solo stuff more. Loved reading that Aikea-Guinea is your favorite song. Underrated EP, too! Cheers!
Goodness, that’s some CT collection right there 😍
My mom was a big fan in the Garlands era, she even saw them live. She never followed any of their stuff after that though. When I showed her HoLV and BBK she didn't believe it was the same band at first lol.
A fun watch brings back good memories. If you haven't, check out the EP Sun's Signature from '22. Elizabeth Frazier's voice is as gorgeous as ever.
Hi there! Yes, I don't know why I hesitated on getting that when it first came out. I'm on the hunt for it now!
Love the Cocteaus. I always loved Victoria land. I would say that is my favorite. But we all have our preferences. Great show. You have an awesome taste in music. Saw the Cocteau twins at Cleveland Agora. I think 4calender Cafe tour.
The first 6 years of their recordings were UK only releases. So unless you had a record shop in your city that ordered imports you were out of luck finding these albums.
I always imagine it must have been fun looking at the mail order record catalogs back then to order LPs. I grew up in the CD era so my only experience with ordering from a catalog was BMG or Columbia House for those bundle CD deals! Cheers!
Hi! - A wonderful Presentation of a Glorious Wonderful Group - and some Band/Artist really deserve that kind of spotlight on them - Thanks - I've been a Fan of Cocteau Twins for many years - and Treasure has a very special place - I just love to put on that LP close my eyes and let the Music and Elizabets VOICE wash all over me - Its "Out-Of-This-World" Experience - Ok, asI mention before I love doing list of songs and LPs - so here is my chosen ones - I have Top 25 though - and Top 5 LPs - NB! Their EP's are also Magical :)
Cocteau Twins Top 20
Pandora (For Cindy)
Ivo
Frou-Frou Foxes In Midsummer Fires
Pink Orange Red
Iceblink Luck
Sugar Hiccup
Millimillenary
Lorelei
Aikea- Guinea
Pearly-Dewdrop Drop’s
Plain Tiger
Heaven Or Las Vegas
Five Ten Fiftyfold
Blu Bell Knoll
Bluebeard
Cherry-Coloured Funk
Lazy Calm
Aloysiois
Carolyn’s Finger
Donimo
Shallow Then Halo
In The Gold Dust Rush
Amelia
Throughout The Dark Months Of April And May
Road River And Rail
Top 5 LPs
Treasure
Head Over Heels
Victorialand
Blue Bell Knoll
Heaven Or Las Vegas
Yay! Thanks for including your lists! This is fun, isn't it? Love your top 5 LP picks, of course! 😉. Their music truly does take us to another place and it's a great escape. Ah, nice mention of Millimillenary! Can't argue with any of these choices for your top 25 songs, my friend! I appreciate you participating, as always! Hope all is well!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert All'swell - even the weather starts to feel like its springtime here in Nor :) - Millimillenary was the first song I heard by them - way back then - and I've been hooked ever since - and Yes - Lists are Fun :)
@@Tfaceu That's great that you're getting a taste of spring. We have reverted back to winter for a few days here. Boo! Lists are definitely fun!
🙋♂️ Hanna 🌞 ! - I saw The Cocteau Twins in England in 1984 & Los Angeles in 1985 & the EP'S & LP'S from those few years are my favorites .so I clearly like your rankings. They were awesome live , just the three of them & a reel to reel machine with the percussion on it. Oddly , my favorite Cocteau Twins song is the last track on their last single the piano driven Alice. Liz Frazier has met so much to me in my life & love Teardrop with Massive Attack. Nice job ! ..Seeing The Cure on May 16th & can't wait ! ✌️
Greetings, David! You being here for every video is truly awesome! Oh my goodness, you saw the Cocteau Twins in 84 and 85. WHOA. That would have been my dream! I was too young at that time ,sadly. Yes, I love Liz's collab with Massive Attack too and Mezzanine is one of my favorites! Yay, you will see the Cure soon! That will be epic! Cheers!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert I saw them at the Beacon Theater in Manhattan. Never imagined it would be a one time thing...they never came back. It wasn't like a rock concert,...it was like seeing the ballet. So uplifting.
Great Job! One of my all time favourite bands! I was falling in love for the first time when "Loves easy Tears" came out and we bought that record together... Lost the girl but I still have that record and a nice memory. Love your stuff!!
Thanks, David! Nice to read that Cocteau Twins are also one of your favorite bands ever! I'm so glad you can still fully enjoy Love's Easy Tears even though there may be some heartbreak attached to it. Their music lives on! Cheers!
Thanks for another great video, Hanna! A friend of mine put "Ivo" on a mix cassette for me back when I was in high school and i loved it. I just recently found my original, nearly 40 year old copy of Treasure., They have such a dreamy, magical sound! "It'll End In Tears" by the 4AD collective "This Mortal Coil" has some stunning Elisabeth Fraser vocals on it.
Hi David! Thanks for stopping by for this video! High five on finding your OG copy of Treasure! Now, that's good news! And I've been looking for a copy of "It'll All End in Tears" for a while, but no luck yet. Fingers crossed I find it sometime this year! Peace!
Hi Hanna,good afternoon,congratulations by your video,i really loved your video too,of truth,cheers and have a nice weekend for you!!!!!!!!!
Greetings! Oh, I'm so glad you enjoyed this video. Thank you! Cheers to you!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert,you're welcome!!!!!!!
IMO the best song outro in their catalogue is Those Eyes That Mouth. Great song even without that, but man, the ending takes you a little by surprise.
choice selections right there! my own favourite is 'Heaven Or Las Vegas', a lot of ravers loved that one post-club. Your inclusion of the BBC Session recordings is absolutely spot on, they originally appeared on a bootleg LP called 'Scream' in the 1980s which was the holy grail for Cocteaus fans back then!
Thanks so very much! Some people may not know that the BBC CD set is out there, so I'm glad I got to mention it! Oh I will have to look up this 'Scream' bootleg. I'm so intrigued! I appreciate the comment!
Just saw the title and was already happy. Played Victorialand a lot those last days, and played Head over heels yesterday. Love everything, maybe my fav is Victorialand or the EP from 85 Tiny .. & Echoes in a shallow bay, the singles, Garlands.... THey are so great!!!!!
Thanks for being here! I really enjoyed this ranking and it's special to connect with other Cocteau Twins fans! Glad you've been enjoying Victorialand and Head Over Heels lately. Timeless music. I appreciate you sharing your favorites, too! Cheers!
Ranking: 1.1 - Treasure 1.2 Blue Bell Knoll 2. Heaven Or Las Vegas 3. Head Over Heels 4. Tiny Dynamine (those are the only ones I can rank). Love that you show CDs too. I still love them.
Love your list, Nicola. I can believe I fudged up Tiny Dynamine. All this time I really thought it was "Dynamite." Maybe I need reading glasses. LOL! And I think I will always buy CDs as long as they are still available! Yay!
After 35 years of loving Cocteau Twins' "Tiny Dynamite" EP, I discovered that it's "Tiny DYNAMINE"....lol, it's actually funny how easy it is to mess up their titles & lyrics....
YES! I can only laugh at myself for this. All this time I seriously thought it was Tiny Dynamite! Thanks to you and others for setting me straight! Haha!
Great Video. I never realized they released so much vinyl. I have a few Cocteau Twins albums on cassette (Treasure and Heaven or Las Vegas) but remember hearing them a lot on the old College radio station (WVUM)...I miss those days but this music video brought back good memories. My fave track of theirs would be the cover of "Song To The Siren" though. I remember watching that video on MTV's "the Cutting Edge" show.
Hi Al! Glad you at least have some Cocteau Twins on cassette! I love "Song to the Siren" too but I haven't been able to find that particular This Mortal Coil album anywhere. One day I will.
Thanks for your personal take on CT. First album I heard was Treasure and it was a revelation. Believe it or not, some New Age customer at the record shop where I worked turned a buddy and I on to the them and then it inspired a true love affair with them and their sound. My fave? Blue Bell Knoll (but that's just me)
Thanks for watching, Scott! What an extraordinary album to start with in Treasure! It took a bit of time for me to truly connect with this band but now I'm a fan for life! Love that BBK is your fave! Cheers!
Ooh, I'd forgotten about that BBC comp - must get round to checking it out. This actually brings back happy memories of being a carefree indie kid and spending two weeks playing guitar on a (deservedly obscure) record made at the Cocteau's West London studio! They were running their Bella Union label out of the studio at the time, so I got to meet Simon (open and friendly), Robin (more guarded, as you might expect) and Mitsuo Tate (slightly bonkers, but nice) - never saw Liz around, though. Heaven Or Las Vegas was my gateway drug into the Cocteau catalogue - just one of the most exquisite-sounding records ever made...
Thanks for watching! Yes, that BBC 2-CD comp is a must have! Wow, thanks for sharing your experience of meeting Simon, Robin, and Mitsuo Tate! Just...wow! HOLV is the perfect intro to Cocteau Twins, and it was mine as well! Enjoy your evening! Cheers!
This was just what the music doctor ordered, Hanna. Icky dicky acky tacky uver domma rara fother morra woes, as Liz Fraser might well warble. I bought all the albums & EPs as they came out up till Echoes in a Shallow Bay, then picked up releases as & when. Probably recorded the Peel sessions too; that's what music addicts did in those days. They had 7 entries in his 1984 Festive 50 (favourite songs of the year voted for by the listeners; The Smiths had 7 that year too). They also appeared on The Tube, Channel 4's live music TV show. So, not quite mainstream but fairly high profile for a while in the 80s. Always loved the way 'The Spangle Maker' builds & builds, the drum machine kicking in near the end. (Y'know it's Dynamine, a Liz Fraser gibber jabber word, & not mite?) Think Treasure is my no.1 - released in November & just so whiskey-Mac Christmassy. I don't normally care for Christmas music either. Really looking forward to your Banshees ranking. (Feline news shock. Turns out Persia the cat is a handsome boy & not a beautiful girl. And on that gender fluid bombshell...) Later!
Hiya, Nigel! Hope all is well! Yep, I'm now aware that it's Dynamine and not Dynamite. I honest to God thought it was Dynamite this whole time and I just pinned a comment about it. Can only laugh about my flubs! Love that Treasure makes your #1 spot. Well deserved. Yeah, gotta love those Christmassy bells. A truly special element. Yep, Siouxsie ranking in the works and maybe in a month or so. Want to do a few videos ahead of it. Haha, glad you got the gender of your cat squared away, too! Toodles!
Great deep dive of a great band. I hope you do more of these.
Elisabeth Fraser's vocals are like nobody else's. It used to cross my mind occasionally that her lyrics could be anything, but there was no way to know. I am more lyrics focused than you seem, but I learned to let go.
Thanks, Richard! Yeah, it's been a while since I've done an album ranking. They really take some thought! I'll be doing a Siouxsie & the Banshees ranking. Other than that, I'm not sure yet.
Glad you learned to appreciate Liz's heavenly singing and put the need for lyrics aside while you enjoy them! ☺ Hope you are doing well! Great to hear from you, as always!
I LOVE The Moon and The Melodies and listen to it often. Nice to see it get a shout out. I only have a few of their records on vinyl, Blue Bell Knoll is my top pick. I could could listen to Carolyn's Fingers on repeat forever. Fraser's singing on that one just keeps me enthralled and everything the band does on that track locks in for me. Perfection.
I have a gatefold/flap copy from '88. Shall I call it a gateflap? 😀
I've got the Pink Opaque as well as the Singles Collection Sampler on vinyl and they are both great places to start for a new fan.
Thank you for stopping by for this video! Carolyn's Fingers almost made my list. On a different day it certainly will be there. I agree that it's a stunning song. Haha, calling your copy of BBK a gate flap works! I did hear that there was that edition out there as well. Very cool! Cheers!
Hola Hanna, I havent heard all the records of CT. I have Treasure on vinyl, and in my wishlist are Head over Heels, and Heaven or Las Vegas. Glad to see you again
I've heard of them for a long time but never tried their stuff until very recently when I wanted to explore a bit more into Dream Pop and Shoegaze. I ended up getting what is considered their most accessible record, "Heaven or Las Vegas". I also found it fascinating to learn of their connection to Trip Hop legends "Massive Attack" with the song "Teardrop" that everybody knows and loves
Excellent exposition here!!! I fell heard-or-heels when I heard "Head Over Heels" circa 1985 but found myself stumped with where to continue elsewhere in their catalog both then, and the years afterwards. I think the 2nd thing I got was "The Moon and It's Tides" which was a huge misstep. However, I was quite pleased when I tried "Treasure" and the "BBC Sessions" some years later. Your video helps give me the much needed focus & direction required to successfully navigate my way through their work. Much appreciated!
Thanks for watching my Cocteau Twins deep dive. It was a fun one and I put a lot of thought into it. I'm glad my ranking gave you some guidance on where to traverse next with them. Such a truly magical band! Happy listening!
I'm a drummer and I loved hearing you are one too! Keep these types of videos going please - I love hearing your perspective on music!
Thanks so much, Joe! Drummers unite! More videos to come! Cheers!
One of my absolute favorite bands as well! I think your choices are solid.
Oh btw…. The bell sounds on Treasure are very likely the Yamaha DX7, although they were also using an E-mu Emulator sampler for a lot of the samples (think the synth vox sound throughout Beatrix).
I’ve got the nice cd box with all the EPs….really nice to have them all in one box but great to see so much you have on vinyl
Hannah, another well crafted and authentic video. I'm so glad that you took a really up close and personal approach to this band's indelible and influential work. Though my rankings may differ from yours, your analysis and rationale for each album make great sense. thank you for the commitment, time, and energy you poured into the curation.
My number one CT tune is..."Pur". Bravo!
What kind words! I sincerely thank you! This one certainly took some deep contemplation! And Pur as your top song - pure bliss! Cheers!
Another great video. Must have taken you hours to compile and consider. Thanks for taking the time. Treasure will always be my favourite and I also have to admit I thought it was Tiny Dynamite too but only for the last 38 years 😀
Hi Johnny! Thanks for the comment and stopping by! Made me feel better that I'm not the only one who thought it was Tiny Dynamite all along! Hehe! Love that Treasure is your #1! Such a fascinating listen. Glad you enjoyed the video. It did take plenty of hours of contemplation! Cheers!
A live version of Love's Easy Tears in London, 1986, it is absoltely gorgeous, visceral and dramatic, and it's slower than the original.
First time I ever heard of the Cocteau Twins was from a lyric from Mike Kinsella aka Owen aka the guy from American Football on the song Poor Souls.
OMG, Owen! I wonder if I still have my CD of "I Do Perceive." Great artist! Cheers, and thanks for the comment!
well worth the wait. thank you!
I appreciate you checking in! Thank you!
Awesome video! I’m starting my dive into the Cocteau Twins and this video is helping me a lot!
I have to say I am digging on that Lush record over your shoulder. I saw them for the first time years ago at Lollapalooza and ran right out and bought this album. I really need to get it on vinyl!
Thanks so much for watching! So glad this video helped! Cocteau Twins are now a top 5 band for me. And you noticed Lush behind me - high five! I wish I could have seen them in their prime. Killer band! Cheers!
Thanks Hannah. Great vid. Clearly a lot of time and thought went into this. Always tough to make the big decisions and to rank pieces. For me it can depend on so many things and my preferences change like the weather. You have done a great job. For the record Treasure and Victorialand are my faves and my favourite song is not actually on a CT album. Primitive Painters by Felt, which is essentially a Cocteau song with Fraser and Guthrie so prominent on the piece. Look forward to the next one…if it’s Souxsie then good luck…so much wonderful music to choose from. Cheers.
Hey there, Brett! Thanks for the kind words about this video. Yes, Primitive Painters! If you'll notice directly behind my left shoulder you'll see Felt's album "Ignite the Seven Cannons," which Primitive Painters is on! 😉 Can't argue with your top 2 album picks! Solid! And yes, the Siouxsie ranking will come later on, but that is the next "ranking" video in the series! Hope all is well with you! Cheers!
I love their 1985 album. I was listing to it via i tunes.
Hi John! Glad you've been sampling Cocteau Twins and their records around that year are truly magic!
Such a great video :) It's very difficult to pick favourite tracks from such a great band but I feel Pink Orange Red is an excellent choice. I love the artwork on their album covers mainly designed by Vaughan Oliver who also designed many other covers for 4AD signed bands.
Ha ha ha …I guess the person who owned your #4 must’ve preferred the Heaven side of the jacket to the Vegas. Sounds like they were side-tracked.
PHENOMENAL: band, perspective, & you. I enjoyed this, immensely. More videos such as this. Please?
Thank you so much! Very nice to read that you enjoyed this ranking immensely! These ones take a little more planning. I don't think I had done a ranking video since my Depeche Mode or Byrds one years ago...
I will do a Siouxsie & the Banshees ranking in the future. Beyond that, I don't know yet!
Haha, I chuckled at your opening two sentences! Yeah, so weird that the previous owner sliced the top. They wanted to be heaven-bound. At least I got it for $9 used! Cheers!
Fantastic, more of these please Hanna. Peppermint Pig was the first single I bought by them so have a soft spot. Top 3 songs - Ivo, Evangaline and Iceblink Luck.
Thanks for the vote for more ranking videos! I will be doing a Siouxsie & the Banshees one, but it may not be as in depth as this one. I may not include the eps for that one, but it will still be fun! Love your top 3 song picks! Kudos! I appreciate the comment!
Superb vid, nicely done! I still have a few gaps missing, so this has been extremely useful. Heaven or Las Vegas needs to go into my collection for sure.
I always feel the CT are the most representative of what 4AD is all about. A brilliant label all round.
Hi George! Yes, I hope you are able to find a copy of HoLV soon! Definitely an essential Cocteau Twins LP! That 4AD label is truly special and groundbreaking. There is a book about the history of 4AD that I am very interested in picking up. Hope all is well!
Tiny Dynamine and Echoes in a Shallow Bay were recorded at the same time and released two weeks apart. The tracks were recorded to test out the capabilities of their new studio, which they had recently built. I consider it the pinnacle of their early sound.
On a side note, you probably know Dereck Higgins, right? I believe he is also in Omaha.
Thank you, Hanna! Just so succinctly and intelligently presented. I have only Blue Bell Knoll, and now I must get a couple more CT albums to renew my awe and love of their music! I want to agree with you wholeheartedly on auto-tune. I hate it. It is soulless, with all the emotion and beauty so often lost.
Thank you, Jules! I had a few flubs in this video but I appreciate the kind words! I'm excited for you that you will be purchasing some more Cocteau Twins LPs in the future! Can't go wrong with any of 'em! Truly magnificent and brilliant band! And a collective "boo" to autotune! See you next time!
Loved the video hanna one of my favorite dream pop bands I love the pl head over heels but I would have to choose treasure as their number one hope you make more videos like this
I'm glad you enjoyed this ranking, Daniel! Thank you! Very worthy pick with Treasure as your #1. That album is truly otherworldly! Next ranking video in the series will be Siouxsie & the Banshees but I probably won't cover their eps like I did with Cocteau Twins! Hope all is well!
The first Cocteau Twins I remember hearing was Blue Bell Knoll. I love all of their work. I think there is something about Heaven or Las Vegas that makes it accessible to more people. But I think Blue Bell Knoll will always be my favorite. The song Carolyn's Fingers is in my DNA at this point.
Hey there! Thanks for taking the time to watch this ranking! BBK as your intro must have left you in awe! Yes, HoLV seems like their most accessible. It's where I started. Carolyn's Fingers almost made my top 20! Maybe next month! 😉 Enjoy the weekend!
Excellent video!
The first time I heard CT was in 2013 I was browsing 4AD artists on UA-cam for the first time and I listened to Treasure. I liked it. It was pleasant and interesting yet slightly underwhelming at the time. Maybe I was just too unfamiliar with that kind of music.
Fast forward to 2021. I have been collecting records since 2018 and I thought to reconnect with their music again. I listened to HOLV and I thought oh wow I didn't dig deep enough the last time. This group is amazing. So after that I started listening to the begining of their discography and started buying all their records!
I would say some of my favorite releases recently is the Twin Lights Ep on 2x7" , Violaine 12" single, Evangeline 12" The Spangle Maker 12", Sunburst and Snowblind , and a 1991 12" promo only U.S Capital compilation. It has a few unreleased tracks and ep tracks.
Hey there! You and I started collecting records the same exact year! ☺ Thanks for sharing what your first exposure to CT was and your journey! Your experience is somewhat similar to mine in that they didn't leave much of an impression upon my first listen but then when I dedicated the time to fully listen to more, I was totally entranced and became obsessed! I'll have to look up that 12" 1991 promo you mentioned. Solid favorites here! Thank you so much for watching!
I have Victorialand (1986), Garlands (1982), Blue bell knoll (1988), Love's easy tears (1986) and Pearly - dewdrops' drops (1984) signed so far! Pink orange 🍊 red in the post 📫!
- C.
Congrats on getting those signed releases! Fantastic!
@@TheOmahaIntrovertthank you 😊
Great Band, thank you. It is more or less close to my choice from them. This music assists me almost all my life. And... same as you, Heaven... was the first album to discover them for longer (real first was Treasure, some years earlier)... Big Thing. Thank you.
Great video, love the Cocteau Twins, my 2nd favorite band and my 2nd largest collection. Interesting to see your rankings, love how everyone relates differently to their music, how everyone has their own preferences. My rankings would be probably kind of the opposite of yours, which is cool. That's what makes these videos fun to watch. My intro to them was Treasure back in 86, but my favorite of theirs is the album Heaven or Las Vegas and the song Heaven or Las Vegas. Great job!
Thanks, Mike! Ohhhh, nice, your 2nd favorite band! Your first is Stereolab? I'm trying to remember from a video. I've built quite the Cocteau Twins collection at this point and the only other bands I can think of where I have as many pieces more would be Depeche Mode, the Who, the Byrds. And of course I can't argue with your #1 pick. In a different month, that could be my #1! Would love you to do a ranking of them sometime!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert Yes, Stereolab. Your Depeche Mode ranking video is legendary, one of the first videos I remember watching when I got into making videos myself. I have a few artist spotlight videos in the works- Blonde Redhead, Medicine, Curve, and then definitely the Cocteau Twins. Not sure if I will do a ranking or just show the collection- I think you have inspired me to do both!
@@playvinylinthemilkynight1879 Thank you! My DM ranking is so dated now. It may have even been before their Spirit album. I'm tempted to redo it because I love Memento Mori! Oh, I'm excited you have some ranking videos in the works! I'm humbled that I have inspired you to show your collection while ranking. It's fun! Oooo, Medicine and Curve. Two favorites in shoegaze for me. I don't have any Medicine on vinyl, just CD. I'm hoping for reissues in the future. And Curve are very special to me. Looking forward to all those!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert I think I am doing the Cocteau Twins one first, then the others. I hope you'll do an updated DM ranking!
Hey Hanna-I think I said in a previous comment that I was introduced to Cocteau Twins by a friend who included In The Dark Months O' April 'n May on a mix tape. I absolutely loved it. Reminded me o' musical selections from the film Thief Of Baghdad (1961) by Carlo Rustichelli. Blue Bell Knoll is my go to album. I played many tracks in heavy rotation on my radio show Folk Into Rock. Thanks for this deep dive. Lookin' forward to hearin' your top songs now. Another incredible show-you rule!
Thanks so much, John! Hope all is well with you. We are skipping RSD this time. Yes, I definitely remember you bringing up In the Darks Months of April and May as your intro. So cool that your friend included that on a mix! Hope you enjoyed my top 20 songs list, too. Enjoy the weekend!
Awesome video Hanna. My fav is Victorialand for all the reasons you mentioned but you are right that there really are no losers in their discography. Love's Easy Tears is my fav EP. Fav song has to be Sigh's Smell of Farewell off LET. Saw them on the HoLV Tour in Chicago. Amazing live as well.
Thanks so very much! Love's easy Tears as your favorite EP and Victorialand as your favorite LP are very worthy choices indeed! It's so amazing that you got to see them on the HoLV tour! If only I had been old enough to have appreciated them then! Cheers!
This is one band that really isn't part of my wheelhouse but after watching this show I'll probably give them a chance thanks to you
Good evening, George. Thanks for always being here. I know this band isn't for everyone, but I'm so glad me talking them up so much has pushed you to check them out further! It's truly awesome reading comments like this! Cheers!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert you're very welcome and isn't this what this is all about is discovering new music together as a community no matter what type it may be
Great to see your CT video. Head Over Heels, Treasure and Garlands my top3. Cool collection.
Thanks so much, Robert! Love your top 3 for sure! I really became obsessed with them in the last year or two. Thanks so much for getting me that Treasure reissue once again! Have fun at the Numan concert!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert you welcome. Gary Numan rocked even though he wasn’t feeling good. I also bought the Treasure reissue when I bought your copy.
Good band! True music innovators in the 80s (and early 90s).
An interesting song that Elizabeth Fraser sang was "Song To The Siren" which she recorded in 1983 for the "This Mortal Coil" project.
There is also a great tragedy behind it.
This song was written in the 60's by Tim Buckley who died in 1975 from a toxic drug mix. Unfortunately, despite his enormous artistic and vocal potential, Tim Buckley failed to achieve commercial success and he wandered aimlessly around musically.
A decade after recording that song, Elizabeth Fraser met Tim Buckley's son Jeff (who only saw his father twice) and fell in love with him. Unfortunately, he died just before his big break. He drowned in a river.
Good evening! Thanks for your thoughtful comment! Yes, I love their cover of Song to the Siren and one day I'll be lucky enough to find It'll All End in Tears by This Mortal Coil! Apparently my favorite singer, Juliana Hatfield, was close to Jeff Buckley before he died as well and wrote a song about him called "Trying Not to Think About It." The Buckleys were so talented! Cheers!
Nice comprehensive overview Hanna. Thanks so much. I only have Treasure on c.d. but consider it completely otherworldly. I'll have to check out more. Have a nice RSD . There are 17 titles that I'm looking for. Cheers.
Thank you for checking in once again, Mark! Treasure is indeed otherworldly and magical. I hope you are able to pick up more titles by them. It's totally worth it! We are skipping RSD this time. Only one thing I want from the US list but SEVERAL I want from the UK list.
Another fantastic video! Now I’m inspired to revisit Victorialand, the one I never quite connected with back in the day. And so glad you mentioned that Liz’s mesmerizing vocals were all her, not auto tuned. 👏🏻
Thanks so much, Erin! Great to see you here! I feel like I was turned off by Victorialand at first because it was maybe too "low key," but after several listens it revealed its beauty! And yes, Fraser has a true and pure vocal talent! Hope you're having a great weekend so far!
That was great. So enjoy you talking about a band that I have loved since the early 80s. I loved your ranking. My favourite two albums are Treasure and Victorialand. I highly recommend that you listen to Victorialand at 33.3rpm and not 45rpm. Sit back, relax and enjoy.
Would love you to do a special on The Stranglers.
Carmelo
Oh fascinating , I will have to try Victorialand again.
Thanks for the comment, Carmelo! Glad you enjoyed my ranking. You have a solid top 2 there! I usually play Victorialand at 33RPM. What a breathtaking album! Ah, the Stranglers. Thanks for the recommendation! There are so many more of their albums I need to hear! Cheers!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert , Hi Hanna, Have you listened to Victorialand at 33rpm by choice or by mistake. The LP is a 45rpm. I first listened to it at 33rpm by mistake. I prefer it at the incorrect 33rpm over the correct 45rpm. The reason it still all seems fine at 33rpm is because of the obscure fabricated lyrics.
@@menu667 The first few times I actually played at 33rpm. When I realized 45rpm was the way it was intended, I tried it but now I always play it at 33rpm. I prefer it that way as well. 😉
Hello Hanna , great t-shirt and great lp collection behind you 😉 i'am not a specialist of the cocteau twins but it's a great band!!! my favorite album is "heaven or las vegas" and my favorite song is "alice" (violaine single cd)-"treasure " is also a great album , but i listen to rarely , i must get to it -i have a lot of cds in my collection-i just buy the first three albums from lena lovich in japan import cd-great!!! great video Hanna see you byyyyye !!!! 😉😇😊
Hiya, Patrick! Happy to read that you dig Cocteau Twins, too! Heaven or Las Vegas of course is a great "top" pick! I love Lene Lovich too and I'm after her first album but haven't found it so far. I just have "Flex" on vinyl. Very creative artist! See you later!
Fantastic vid, im still collecting their stuff. blubell knoll is my fave. Love the guitars.
Thanks, Paul! It's awesome you are still on the hunt for some of their discography. Me too! Blue Bell Knoll is so gorgeous and perfect! Enjoy the weekend!
@@TheOmahaIntrovert Have a good weekend too.
Hanna I loved your exploration of the Cocteau Twins. Did you ever see the Cocteau Twins perform live? I saw them play at the Sadler's Wells Theatre & The Town & Country, Kentish Town, London. I have a vague recollection of Dif Juz doing support at one of the gigs.
Thanks, I"m so glad you liked this video! Unfortunately I never got to see Cocteau Twins live. I'm so glad you got an opportunity to catch them! Dif Juz - amazing! I've been looking for their LP for a while. No luck yet! Cheers!
Great artist spotlight on Cocteau Twins Hanna!
Thank you! Certainly took some thought putting this together! Be well!
Thank you for this Ranking I loved your ranking Hanna you were spot on great top 9 . Head over Heels is stunning I discovered then in the late 90’s along with Dead Can Dance .Treasure was my first listen it completely blew me away I wish I could off saw Cocteau Twins live I was looking religiously for their albums I have all of their Studio records and some eps it so hard to track down . Their a group that was so influential on shoegaze an sound that can’t be duplicated. Hanna this was amazing take care. Lovellandrew
Thank you so very much, Andrew. I appreciate the comment! I also wish i could have seen Cocteau Twins live in their most crucial period. Such an influential and groundbreaking group. Their music lives on in a big way! Cheers!
another great video my friend
Thanks, Curtis and happy Thursday evening to you!
Cool Cocteau Twins ranking, Hanna! 😊
Aww, thank you, Tony! Cheers!
Good video!