Album Info
| Artist: | Lloyd Cole And The Commotions |
| Album: | Rattlesnakes |
| Released: | Australasia, Nov 1984 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Perfect Skin | |
| A2 | Speedboat | |
| A3 | Rattlesnakes | |
| Written-By - Cole, Clark | ||
| A4 | Down On Mission Street | |
| A5 | Forest Fire | |
| B1 | Charlotte Street | |
| B2 | 2CV | |
| B3 | Four Flights Up | |
| Written-By - Donegan, Cole | ||
| B4 | Patience | |
| Written-By - Cowan, Cole | ||
| B5 | Are You Ready To Be Heartbroken? | |
| Written-By - Cole, Clark |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Lloyd Cole and the Commotions' debut album, "Rattlesnakes," released in 1984, is a quintessential piece of 1980s indie pop that has left a lasting impact on the genre. The album is celebrated for its literate lyrics, jangly guitar sound, and the charismatic presence of frontman Lloyd Cole. It stands as a significant work in the post-punk and new wave movements of the time, capturing the intellectual and emotional zeitgeist of the era.
"Rattlesnakes" was met with critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its sophisticated songwriting and the band's ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy melodies. The album's production, handled by Paul Hardiman, complements the band's sound, allowing the intricate guitar work and Cole's distinctive voice to shine. The album's lyrical content is often noted for its literary references and introspective themes, drawing comparisons to the works of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.
The album opens with "Perfect Skin," a track that immediately sets the tone with its jangly guitars and Cole's wry, observational lyrics. This song, along with others like "Forest Fire" and "Rattlesnakes," showcases Cole's knack for storytelling and his ability to weave complex narratives into pop songs. "Forest Fire" in particular stands out with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, making it one of the album's most memorable tracks.
Another highlight is "Are You Ready to Be Heartbroken?," a song that combines a catchy chorus with a sense of melancholy, a hallmark of Cole's songwriting. The track "Rattlesnakes" is notable for its references to literary and cultural figures, including Simone de Beauvoir and Joan Didion, which adds a layer of depth and sophistication to the album.
"Rattlesnakes" did not achieve massive commercial success in the United States, but it was a hit in the UK, where it reached number 13 on the UK Albums Chart. The album's success helped establish Lloyd Cole and the Commotions as a significant force in the British music scene of the 1980s. It also paved the way for Cole's subsequent solo career, where he continued to explore similar themes and musical styles.
The album's influence can be seen in the work of many artists who followed, particularly in the indie and alternative rock scenes. Its blend of literate lyrics and melodic pop has been cited as an influence by bands such as The Smiths and R.E.M., who were contemporaries of Lloyd Cole and the Commotions.
In terms of awards, "Rattlesnakes" did not win any major accolades at the time of its release, but it has since been recognized as a classic of its genre. It frequently appears on lists of the greatest albums of the 1980s and is often cited by critics as a high point in Lloyd Cole's career.
Overall, "Rattlesnakes" is a masterful debut that captures the essence of 1980s indie pop. Its combination of intelligent lyrics, memorable melodies, and the distinctive voice of Lloyd Cole make it a standout album that continues to resonate with listeners today. Whether you're a fan of the era or discovering it for the first time, "Rattlesnakes" offers a rich listening experience that is both timeless and deeply rooted in its cultural context.
