Album · 1988
Blue Bell Knoll
Blue Bell Knoll is an album by Cocteau Twins, released in 1988 on 4AD, with 10 tracks.
- 10
- Tracks
- 35 min
- Runtime
Not yet rated — be the first
Your rating
Tracklist
10 tracks · 35 min
Album · 1988
Blue Bell Knoll is an album by Cocteau Twins, released in 1988 on 4AD, with 10 tracks.
Not yet rated — be the first
10 tracks · 35 min
The first Cocteaus album to feature a full-band lineup since Treasure was also their first full studio record released in America, resulting from the group's stateside deal with Capitol. Much to longtime fans' surprise, the Twins in fact were much more content with Capitol than 4AD, hinting at their eventual full departure from that label. This was all well and good, but the trio's new inspiration didn't fully translate into their work, unfortunately. While Blue Bell Knoll has some striking moments that are pure Cocteaus at their best -- the opening title track is especially lovely with a keyboard loop leading into Fraser's ever-wonderful vocals, a light rhythm, and a great final Guthrie solo -- it's still the band's least noteworthy release since Garlands. The feeling throughout is of a group interested in dressing up older approaches that have served them well, but aren't as distinct; the quite-lush arrangements by Guthrie are fine but the songs are a touch more pedestrian. Blue Bell Knoll has enough initial steam, however, to ensure that there are reasons to listen, happily. "Athol-Brose" has the inspirational feel that the Twins can easily create. "Carolyn's Fingers," the clear…