Cocteau Twins

Scottish Dream Pop Pioneers

Cocteau Twins were a Scottish dream pop band active from 1979 to 1997, known for their ethereal sound and the distinctive vocals of Elizabeth Fraser. The band was formed by guitarist Robin Guthrie, bassist Will Heggie (later replaced by multi-instrumentalist Simon Raymonde), and Fraser. They quickly became a critical and cult favorite, signing with the independent label 4AD, where they released several influential albums. "Treasure," released in 1984, is often cited as one of their masterpieces, showcasing their signature lush soundscapes and Fraser's otherworldly voice. The band reached a wider audience with "Heaven or Las Vegas" in 1990, which demonstrated a more accessible sound while still retaining their unique style. Cocteau Twins' music has been noted for its pioneering use of guitar effects and Fraser's soprano vocals, which often eschewed clear lyrics for emotive sounds. Although they disbanded in 1997, their work continues to inspire many artists across various genres.