Simon Raymonde
Simon Raymonde announces the release of Solo Works 96-98 due 9th December via Bella Union and to accompany the announcement shares “It’s A Family Thing”, the album’s beguiling opening track.
Recording his debut solo album Blame Someone Else whilst still in Cocteau Twins. Fellow Twins Elizabeth Fraser and Robin Guthrie both appeared on the album, as did late-period member Mitsuo Tate. However by the time the album was released the Cocteau Twins had disbanded “It was begun in 1996 at a time of turmoil with Cocteau Twins,” says Simon of the album now. “At the time, I was unsure if I should make the album but my band-mates were extremely supportive, and their encouragement helped me get the record finished. It took me 25 years to feel comfortable with these songs being available again. We all have hurdles to get over before we can feel ready to let go of certain things. Today, I feel that the first-ever release on Bella Union should once again be an active part of the label’s history, if only to bookmark these first 25 years.”
Originally released in October 1997 it became the first release on Bella Union, the new label set up by Simon and Robin. And soon after by Simon alone. Twenty-five years later, Blame Someone Else is being released on vinyl for the first time as Solo Works 96-98 with the addition of three bonus tracks recorded in the same time period.
During the opening track “It’s A Family Thing” Simon’s hesitation at stepping out on his own is apparent singing of yearning for stability, while further album track “In My Place” takes a more overt stance – if he’s losing face, it’s his face. Any uncertainty is ultimately gone by closing track “Tired Twilight,” a 12 minute sonic whirlpool of rhythmic endurance.
