Disco de Cocteau Twins: “BBC Sessions”

This box set is clearly a must-have for fans, but it also is a good first purchase for newcomers. However, disc one could be a surprise for those who are only familiar with the dreamy soundscapes of the Cocteau's "middle-era". Some lesser known songs have already appeared on their first 12" release "Lullabies" and on the European edition of the album "Garlands". All in all, the performance makes the Cocteaus sound darker and more rock-oriented than they used to be. Disc two is a surprise too, because the clinical production of songs from "Milk and Kisses" is stripped away, and these songs definitely sound more "underground". I think the whole album is a great new way to listen to the Cocteau Twins and it proves that they were among the most innovative and enjoyable '80s dark wave groups.

While packaged in a somewhat overly fussy sleeve, with the same info repeated several times, this is wish fulfillment for fans of pre-BLUE BELL KNOLL Cocteau Twins. The alternate versions of early songs esp. highlight Liz's uncanny, howling delivery (I never understood all the comparisons to Siouxsie). "Strange Fruit" is a jaw-dropping fusion of post-punk and the blues... whew! while some tracks are redundant and strictly fan-friendly, nothing seems like filler. The later tracks are a bit weak. However, they feature Liz belting things out in a manner that became increasingly RARE (in the studio at least) after, say, 1988. The band that once sounded like it had at least two vocalists was starting to sound a LOT like its imitators. However, this is highly recommended, especially for those that like they're Twins simple and STARKLY, DARKLY beautiful, rather than obviously "pretty"...

Most of this 2 CD set dates from around 1983, so the songs are very synth-driven. The recording quality is superb on both discs... much better than most of the Cocteau live bootlegs that circulate in record stores. Liz's voice sounds exceptional, especially on the old classic tracks. Her voice on the new songs is much more restrained. Several previously unreleased tracks are available on this album for the first time, such as "Hearsay Please," "Dear Heart," "Strange Fruit," and "My Hue and Cry." All in all, this album is definitely worth buying, yet fans who adore the Heaven or Las Vegas/Four-Calendar Cafe era will be somewhat disappointed.

This collection is just what fans starved for more Cocteau Twins need. Unfortunately, the band's breakup seems final and re-issues, retrospectives and live albums are all we may get. Only two complaints - no liner notes or booklet?!?!! Why not?? And also - I think this collection is a bit heavy on the early part of the Twins' career. About one-third of Disc 1 will seem mediocre especially for fans' of post 1984 (the "Treasure" album) period. But the rest of the music is brilliant, including an exceptional recording of "Seekers Who Are Lovers". Possibly even better than the "Milk and Kisses" version - I'll need a few more listens. "From The Flagstones", "Pepper-Tree", "Musette and Drums", "Violaine", and "Fifty-fifty Clown" are all performed wonderfully. This is a definite must for any Cocteau Twins fan's collection.

These BBC radio sessions tend to be slapped together with little thought for the buyer. Make a few bucks is the general motive.. I doubt whether this could have been the case with the superbly tasteful Bella Union label at the helm of this comprehensive trawl through the Cocteau Twins BBC archive. In a gorgeous sleeve and 2 cd set designed by Russell Mills(Eno, Michael Brook, David Sylvian, NIN etc ), the music within showcases the influence this seminal independent band have had since the early 80s when they exploded effortlessly on a miserable UK music scene. From the heavy beats of Musette & Drums to the elegant waltz of Sugar Hiccup, the early period up to 1988's Blue Bell Knoll shows the punk spirit that the band has always hidden well. The later tracks, include a spellbinding "Seekers Who Are Lovers" from the underrated Milk and Kisses cd, this recorded for GLR's Robert Elms. Also a stunning cover of the Billie Holiday classic 'Strange Fruit' surely illustrates that really this trio has recorded some of the greatest music of the past 20 years, and we don't even yet know it. One day we surely will.