Rykodisc
1999
BBC Sessions
About This Album
Cocteau Twins have always been a love 'em-or-hate 'em kind of band -- to some, Elizabeth Fraser's cool, chirpy warble, the shimmering multi-layered guitars and bass of Simon Raymonde and Robin Guthrie, and the affectless electronic percussion that always accompanies them combine to approximate the music of the spheres. To others, it's all frosting and no cake. This two-disc compilation of live and radio studio recordings (some of which are previously unreleased) probably won't change anyone's mind either way, but if there was ever any doubt of Fraser's vocal virtuosity, that doubt can be laid to rest now: imagine a cross between Emmylou Harris (without any twang) and Sinéad O'Connor (with discipline). The program proceeds chronologically, from the relatively tuneless "Wax and Wane" and "Garlands" through "Ivo" and "Otterley" (two luscious melodies from the band's aptly titled Treasure) and several almost equally pretty tracks from 1996. At their best, no one can match Cocteau Twins for sheer, swooning, inscrutable elegance, and they're frequently at their best on this fine collection. ~ Rick Anderson, All Music Guide
Track List

Disc 1 (try tracks 1,8,12 and 15)

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Disc 2 (try track 12)

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