Search - Cocteau Twins :: Milk And Kisses

Simply Magnificent... A Perfect Swan Song

Alan Taylor | Chicago, IL United States | 03/31/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the Cocteau Twins final full-length release, and as sad it may be that they are no longer creating music together, what a perfect ending to a wonderful run. This CD encompasses everything that a long-time fan like myself loves about Cocteau Twins. Sweeping melodies, lush soundscapes, both foreign and yet totally accesible at the same time. Some fans have not given this album the same high marks as past efforts and that is totally puzzling. Are we all listening to the same CD? This final effort is every bit as musically enlightned as "Blue Bell Knoll" or "Victorialand." Put this disc on when you have the time to pay attention, late at night, and let the music sweep you away. This is disc is a must have... you won't we disappointed."

Graceful beauty - aural climax.

M. Nastasi | Grand Forks, ND United States | 05/20/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"My first exposure to Cocteau Twins was via MTV, of all places, back when they played music instead of commercials masking themselves as music. "Postmodern MTV" hosted by Kevin Seal (whatever happened to him?) played the video for "Carolyn's Fingers" from "Blue Bell Knoll," saying it was brilliant. I had to agree - BBK was in my collection the next day.I have since been fortunate enough to own all of the Cocteau Twins US releases, and a few of their UK releases for good measure. What a gift to the world their career as an ensemble was!"Milk and Kisses" is an appropriate coda to a catalogue of ethereal, heartfelt masterpieces. Frasier's vocals lilt above the astral guitarwork like wispy clouds on "Serpentskirt," evoking visions of love, lust and loss. On other tracks, like "Tishbite," her assured stylings portray an inner strength that is positively inspirational. Each track is a journey itself, while being a chapter in a larger, more universal story. Overall, the sound is epic, angelic and hopeful.Though we may not see another release from this seminal, completely unique band, "Milk and Kisses" is a practically perfect curtain call. Recommended highly!!!"

Beauty, Bliss, Elegance, Melancholy

Jack Dempsey | South Miami Beach, Florida | 08/29/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Cocteau Twins definitely have noticeable, distinct stages. There is the early (circa 1982) dark, brooding stage found in the works of "Garlands" or "The Pink Opaque." There is the movement into the extremely beautiful wall-of-sound-landscape sound, rich in texture and warmth that began with "Treasure," went to "Victorialand" and ultimately peaked with their most beautiful album, "Blue Bell Knoll." It is this stage which is, in my humble opinion, their most beautiful. It certainly secured 4AD's presence on the scene (as if it were unable to do that with the likes of This Mortal Coil, Dead Can Dance, Dif Juz, etc!) Then, of course, there is a later, almost indescribable stage, but certainly different than its predecessors, with "Heaven or Las Vegas" and "Four Calendar Cafe." This release, dare I say, marks a return to that beautiful stage described above. It is such a beautiful release, that does not stray far from the original formula of lilting guitars, delicate drums, and awe-inspiring vocals. I remember catching the Cocteau Twins in concert, with The Cure, Mazzy Star and Gallon Drunk circa 1987. It was indeed an incredible show, and this release for some reason brought back the memories of that time. Definitely pick this release up. For those long-time fans who were, to a degree, disappointed by "Four Calendar Cafe" will find this release to be much more satisfying. Those who are just beginning to get into the Cocteau Twins....well, I HONESTLY would suggest you opt for either "Treasure," "Victorialand," or "Blue Bell Knoll" as a starter. However, I understand that "Blue Bell Knoll" is now out of print domestically. So, hit the mom and pop shops and see if you can find it used. But should you choose to go for a newer release, you cannot do wrong by picking this one up. It is by far, some of their best work in years. In my opinion, this cd is worth the cost alone for the song "Calfskin Smack" by itself. I cannot describe how simply beautiful it truly is. Thus, discover it for yourself. And to those who are new, you'll curse the Cocteau Twins for instilling in you the dire need to buy every single cd they have ever released. But, if that's the worse curse that ever befalls you, consider yourself truly blessed for being able to experience such beauty contained within."