That composition is so perfectly controlled and executed, it gives the listener an incredible sense of anticipation and anxiety. Liz Fraser vocal delivery is almost ethereal.
No other like her. I thank the universe on the daily for this woman. She is my thread of sanity,my inspiration. Absolutely indebted, forever grateful.....❤
This song always makes me shiver, this is real music and Liz Fraser has such an amazing talent I just can't get enough of this. I've been listening to the Cocteau Twins and everything Liz has been involved with since 1981 and I still love every minute of it.
It's amazing how much intensity they managed to squeeze into such an initially-mellow-sounding groove. Back when I was DJ'ing on my College radio station, I played this song every time I was in the booth. It was in rotation for only two weeks because we didn't get enough requests for it, which really chafed me at the time, I was flabbergasted by the apathy and indifference towards this song, of both our audience and the other DJ's. We could play a limited number of non-Rotation songs every hour (along with the compulsory PSA's the FTC required us to air), and I spun this song up as often as I could, I'd lose myself in it with my cans on, sometimes I could hardly bring myself to cite the next song, I felt like this one deserved some "breathing room" after it ended (Dead Air is "No-no #1 in radio, but I still sometimes waited five to ten seconds to play the next song, even after receiving a warning over it from our studio manager, with whom I had very little in common when it came to music, he loved pop junk like "All-Star", and vacuous house music, which, since he played that kind of light fare every weekend at the local LGBTQ Club, I had hoped he'd be more accommodating for real music on the station: end of self righteous rant). At the end if the year they actually dumped that disk, which I snatched up in a heartbeat. That promotional disk also had an obnoxious (by comparison) tune by Black Grape, and something from Moby, if I recall correctly (this was twenty years ago, now, and I only really cared about this time so far as that promo compilation was concerned) but I just couldn't get into it, it seemed so trite sitting on the same Aluminum/Polycarbonate platter as this song. It was both vindicating and also something of an annoyance to see how popular this song became after it was made into TV-Opening-Theme-Song material a few years later. I'll admit, that's mostly just Sour Grapes, but I was still chuffed that it went overlooked for so many years while ridiculous crap like "Limp Bizkit" and "Bush" were dominating the charts at the time, along with scads of other "Rap & Roll" throwaway me-too acts (I won't name names, I'm sure you can sort it out yourselves). I had played this song for various family members after moving back to Colorado post-Uni, but all I got were disinterested yawns and glazed-over eyes, only to have these same siblings (and my parents) suddenly start telling me about "this awesome theme song" on TV...the very one they had totally blown off when I'd played it for then a few years earlier, on their computers, in the car, and on the Hi-Fi, Doh! They also, apparently, didn't even remember me playing it for then and raving about it! Oh, well, at least it eventually received new legs and finally got some of the recognition it deserved, even if those same Cotton Eared listeners were oblivious to it when it was first released!
Love, love is a verb Love is a doing word Fearless on my breath Gentle impulsion Shakes me, makes me lighter Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Fearless on my breath Night, night after day Black flowers blossom Fearless on my breath Black flowers blossom Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Fearless on my... Water is my eye Most faithful mirror Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Of a confession Fearless on my breath Most faithful mirror Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Fearless on my breath You stumble in the dark You stumble in the dark
The most disputed line - start of second verse. Others hear it as "night, night of murder". (Bear in mind that mis-stressing words is a Fraser trademark, and the association of black flowers [and, indeed, "black milk"])
I love her voice. I am in heaven now, it makes me cry because I look around and the mess of reality isn't matching up to the sheer perfection of what is going to my ears.
To be fair the late 80's/early 90's were awash with talent. We didn't realise it because we thought it'd always be like that. I know the CT were earlier but there was a mashup from the 80's to the 90's that was just perfect, punk mixed with dub, house mixed with inidie, indie mixed with rock. I'd never give up growing up during those years
forgot how wicked these guys are...the new wave era in music was by far the most inspiring time ...and this coming from a self professed metalhead.....an EPIC trak...
I want this song played at my funeral, the most heavenly song ever written. God sent Liz Frazer and her voice for us human. And that groove... man... the drum and bass so tight...
So many years. Why haven't I come across this song before now? I need new friends... Its beauty is blinding, it haunts my every day, and when I heard that it is dedicated to her deceased friend, Jeff Buckley... well... it cuts right through to my soul and leaves my eyes watery. Very, very well done Massive Attack and Elizabeth. Bravo... bravo, bravissimo...
Badass! I remember hearing this when "House" started. It was cool back then and even more badass now. I just never knew who it was. Life is good thanks to you guys!
Some songs can create such an emotion in people that other songs can not. Mazzy Starr with Fade Into You, That beautiful black woman who sings At Last, John Lennon's Jealous Guy, George Harrison's Here Comes The Sun...... and this song right here. amazing...
+elevenart Not quite. From Wikipedia: "Fraser wrote the song's lyrics. While recording the song on 29 May 1997, she found out that her once-close friend, Jeff Buckley, had drowned. "That was so weird ... I'd got letters out and I was thinking about him. That song's kind of about him - that's how it feels to me anyway."
im almost 30 here and im right there with you! its rare to find a good piece of music now! grew up on Led Zepplin, Rolling Stones, Eagles and the rest. slowly progressed into other genres, but i find myself going back and listening to all the old classics because most stuff just doesnt compare to the soul that went into writing music, you used to be able to feel it.
Elizabeth Fraser is an absolute goddess of vocals. Massive attack know quality and put it to use. Both vocalist and musicians are massively (Pun intended if you like) underrated. Long live them both.
Since Blue Lines came out Ive been a major Fan of Massive Attack - unfortunatly I havent a chance to see them live yet its still on my list of things to do before I die
The two most talented together! There are no words. Your heart stops with pain and longing. Tricky and Elizabeth so fucking incredibly talented..I can't stop listening..My heart wants to cry and burst at the same time.
This track alwyas gives me goosebumps.. it's like I can feel some beautiful light shooting up...hopeful...and the darkness around it makes it shine even brighter...this sounds so human...conflict and cohesion flowing together in harmony
While recording the song in 1997, she found out that Jeff Buckley, whom she had formerly had a relationship with, had disappeared-later discovered to have drowned. In 2009, she said, "That was so weird ... I'd got letters out and I was thinking about him. That song's kind of about him-that's how it feels to me anyway".
I have to admit...I was a Cocteau Twins fanatic, about 12 years ago when my ex-girlfriend turned me on to them. How naïve I was to think that this was a 2 girl band. Well, I thought, what the HELL.... Cocktail Twins can't be too bad, right?...this past weekend, while I was at work, I had a flashback to the band of twins..and could not remember their frickin name....My bad on that...Well, we have made up...I have re-discovered this absolutely incredible band. The nicest part, is that they are from my ancestry country of Scotland...But, the best and most amazing thing I want to say is that Liz Fraser has the most absolutely incredible voice that I have ever heard......I have no idea how she makes this music come alive and at the same time, sending absolute chills up and down my spine...Music like I have never heard. The only thing that makes it better is listening over and over in my head..CAPTIVATING..ELECTRIC..MOVING..SURREALISTIC...AND HAUNTING....A VOICE THAT I WILL NEVER FORGET...Massive Attack/Teardrop may be my most favorite song of all time...IT DOES NOT GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS...She puts her heart and soul into every note..THANK YOU LIZ FRASER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I saw the Cocteaus in 1994 and it was magical. There is a show from 1991 (or 1990) on here that is fairly representative as it has soundboard audio laid over video and it really is a great experience.
Sitting in a dark room, sound up to the max, beautiful vibe, Cocteau familiar sound, Liz Fraser that unmistakably voice, ever so angelic, and smooth, with a way to shake up any song that she sings, absolutely one of her finest vocalist of her time..Amen to her for the forgotten voices of the unliving that should have lived!! Grace and Peace to You Liz!!!!
Es la cosa más hermosa y más exquisita de este mundo. Te amo tanto, Liz, te amo tanto porque me sanas, me haces y me deshaces, me das fuerza y luz, sacas mi creatividad y mi amor, mi coraje. Gracias por existir admirada, amada y etérea Liz. 🖤
I will always love you Liz. I was on Lessa's Facebook page today, and I gave her a big nod too! I am so grateful for Massive Attack, Cocteau Twins, and Leesa for bringing it all together for me. I am so grateful.
Liz Fraser sings from inside and outside of her body simultaneously. I don't know any other singer like her. I was obsessed with Blue Bell Knoll in the eighties. Still sounds magical now.
Isn't it strange I love two female vocalists Liz Frazer and Lisa Gerrard both funnily created their own language..I do love others but both haunt you in away others don't
+Garth Davison Have you heard of Jennifer Charles of Elysian Fields. She has a very sultry voice, but kind of has that "I don't know what the hell she is saying most of the time, but I love it" style of singing as well. She also fronts another band called Lovage. They are both pretty good bands :)
Couldn't agree more :-) I remember hearing Songs of the Siren and I honestly thought, on first hearing, it was Lisa Gerrard it was so similar..Lisa Gerrard came from as I'm sure you know The Dead Can Dance and then went on to do other things Liz again from the Cocteau Twins and famous for Pearly Dew Drops Drops one of my favs went and did other things as well..So we have two woman from different continents that have a similar tone and singing qualities..How weird is that..I bet Liz could have done Gladiator as well
I have always fancied Elizabeth Fraser and always will, I fell head over heels for her in the 80s when I too was a teenager and she still looking good , if there is a song I like best it would be From The Flagstones because everything the Cocteau Twins made is good listening and watching, I really love the video Pearly Dewdrops Drops shot in a church.
That's where I've heard her when I was a child. From Alice to this song, i'm discovering Elizabeth Fraser. Sadly our musical styles don't collide, her voice is a true angel gift.
They chose the right voice, as wonderful as "Ray Of Light" is, Madonna would not have elevated this track to the same heights, Liz Fraser absolutely smokes, can't stop playing it! :).
I rarely would say this being the ambassador of multiple styles and genres, but Massive Attack has to be one of the best groups/projects ever. Period. I don't know how much goosebumps I can take from that bass...
another Massive Attack song which went over the heads of everyone until it had left the charts. Hard to believe there was no #1 but in our favour it has preserved the integrity of their music.
Love, love is a verb Love is a doing word Fearless on my breath Gentle impulsion Shakes me, makes me lighter Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Fearless on my breath Night, night of matter Black flowers blossom Fearless on my breath Black flowers blossom Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Fearless on my Water is my eye Most faithful mirror Fearless on my breath Teardrop on the fire Of a confession Fearless on…
I saw Cocteau in the 80ies, Stockholm, Kolingsborg, they had released their first album, which I like a lot. It was raw, have followed and there are just some amazing tracks along the road.
An amazing arrangement! Just one of the most beautiful tunes like a previous comment a tune that just never leaves you-:)-:) Thank you for uploading this video here!
Liz Frasier's voice is incredible. This song is one of the moodiest and amazings songs ever! dopest bass line ever lol. seriously, track will always give me goosebumps
Thank you Liz, for your contribution to what I deem as contemporary music. From Cocteau twins, to the FSOL and Massive attack, you have consistently delivered singing out of this planet. I can't express my appreciation in words, they lose their meaning. So, thank you.
She is good on Downside Up, with Peter Gabriel, as well, not to mention her tracks with Felt and Dif Juz from the 80s and the remix of Time Baby by Medicine from the Crow soundtrack. Oh, and Candleland with Ian McCulloch (Look for the Second Coming version, she is on that much more), and there is a track from his second album Mysterio that she sings on called "Heaven's Gate". Robin produced that and Vibour Blue from the album, and two B-sides called Ribbons and Chains and Birdy, and if you ever wondered what Cocteau Twins would sound like with a male lead singer, listen to Ribbons and Chains, holy shit.
Whenever I need to come down from this life, take a step back, do a soul check, and relax I listen to Liz Fraser. Especially The Cocteau Twins. Something about her voice just resets my spirit. Her voice is Angelic.
The best female vocalist of the past 50 years. I always imagine Liz Fraser being alive in the 1500's, and royalty and the wealthy coming from all around to hear her sing. Like a Mozart of singing.
I love the dark soulful music of the 90s. dopest bass line ever lol. seriously, track will always give me goosebumps This is truly the epitome of 'ethereal'
Liz had an interview in The Guardian in 2009 and it shed alot of light on the lyrics she wrote to this song and it's connection to the late, amazingly talented Jeff Buckley. They had a connection you can tell is still extremely strong and painful for her today. Not to mention they have a duet you can find on here that got leaked a few years ago and it's simply two of the most amazing voices I have ever heard!!!
The lyrics was written by Elizabeth Fraser (Cocteau Twins) for Jeff Buckley. When the Jeff Buckley's gone, his lover Liz Fraser wrote that song. It's so specially.
Were they lovers? I'm sure Jeff Buckley was dating Joan Wasser of Joan As Policewoman when he passed away. But yes, I've read that this song was recorded by Elizabeth on the day Jeff died so it is, in a sense, about him.
From what I understand, Liz and Jeff dated, but it ended before he passed away. Before that, she was in a relationship with Robin Guthrie, from the begiining of the Cocteau Twins to the early 90s. After Jeff Buckley, Liz got into a relationship with Damon Reece of Spiritualized.
Liz Fraser's voice has been with me since the beginning of the Cocteau Twins, through This Mortal Coil and Massive Attack. Her voice is like a living angel, vulnerable, delicate. When I want to drift away from this world in my thoughts and struggles she is there to assist.
OMG! The chills! What an amazing collaboration - Bristol meets Grangemouth, Scotland! Have loved Elizabeth since very early days: "Cocteau Twins/This Mortal Coil" era and Massive Attack since 'Blue Lines' - not as young as I once was, but they really DON'T make music like this anymore - maybe that's a good thing, I dunno - jus' saying' - but ALL hip, break, acid house, you name it comes from artists such as these! Unrepeatable and unforgettable
That composition is so perfectly controlled and executed, it gives the listener an incredible sense of anticipation and anxiety. Liz Fraser vocal delivery is almost ethereal.
And be thankful the other didn’t get to sing it. This is for Liz they said
@R230Tuner madonna was going to be chosen .
I think schminkyminky would sound better
Almost
Liz Fraser is never "almost" ethereal
No other like her. I thank the universe on the daily for this woman. She is my thread of sanity,my inspiration. Absolutely indebted, forever grateful.....❤
Don't we all? And anyone who doesn't is a fool.
ahh shes amazing i first heard her on all the flowers in time bend towards the sun with jeff buckley both amazing
?
+cutesucker LoveAll oh,nevermind. You are so not worth the trouble
If appreciating a beautiful voice makes me emotionally weak, then I don't care. I'd rather be soft, than hard.
proof that MTV once was a Music channel
OneMinuteFixed now it's Muppet TV
Now the 'M' stands for 'meh'
i have a shirt with i am my mtv
The "M" stands for "Mindless."
Things were better back then lol
this is the first time a song performed live sounds better than the original recording, unbelievable base, eternal tune
Phenomenal.Teardrop is one of those songs that you want to hear forever and ever until eternity.
Or to be the last thing, you ever hear, in this world, as you depart.
It's incredible how nobody gets bored of this song
This song always makes me shiver, this is real music and Liz Fraser has such an amazing talent I just can't get enough of this. I've been listening to the Cocteau Twins and everything Liz has been involved with since 1981 and I still love every minute of it.
I literally have chills running down my spine listening to this now. Crazy how music can do that.
dopest bass line ever lol. seriously, track will always give me goosebumps
Chris Evans the whole album's basslines give me goosebumps lol
serious players.
It's amazing how much intensity they managed to squeeze into such an initially-mellow-sounding groove. Back when I was DJ'ing on my College radio station, I played this song every time I was in the booth. It was in rotation for only two weeks because we didn't get enough requests for it, which really chafed me at the time, I was flabbergasted by the apathy and indifference towards this song, of both our audience and the other DJ's. We could play a limited number of non-Rotation songs every hour (along with the compulsory PSA's the FTC required us to air), and I spun this song up as often as I could, I'd lose myself in it with my cans on, sometimes I could hardly bring myself to cite the next song, I felt like this one deserved some "breathing room" after it ended (Dead Air is "No-no #1 in radio, but I still sometimes waited five to ten seconds to play the next song, even after receiving a warning over it from our studio manager, with whom I had very little in common when it came to music, he loved pop junk like "All-Star", and vacuous house music, which, since he played that kind of light fare every weekend at the local LGBTQ Club, I had hoped he'd be more accommodating for real music on the station: end of self righteous rant). At the end if the year they actually dumped that disk, which I snatched up in a heartbeat. That promotional disk also had an obnoxious (by comparison) tune by Black Grape, and something from Moby, if I recall correctly (this was twenty years ago, now, and I only really cared about this time so far as that promo compilation was concerned) but I just couldn't get into it, it seemed so trite sitting on the same Aluminum/Polycarbonate platter as this song.
It was both vindicating and also something of an annoyance to see how popular this song became after it was made into TV-Opening-Theme-Song material a few years later. I'll admit, that's mostly just Sour Grapes, but I was still chuffed that it went overlooked for so many years while ridiculous crap like "Limp Bizkit" and "Bush" were dominating the charts at the time, along with scads of other "Rap & Roll" throwaway me-too acts (I won't name names, I'm sure you can sort it out yourselves). I had played this song for various family members after moving back to Colorado post-Uni, but all I got were disinterested yawns and glazed-over eyes, only to have these same siblings (and my parents) suddenly start telling me about "this awesome theme song" on TV...the very one they had totally blown off when I'd played it for then a few years earlier, on their computers, in the car, and on the Hi-Fi, Doh! They also, apparently, didn't even remember me playing it for then and raving about it! Oh, well, at least it eventually received new legs and finally got some of the recognition it deserved, even if those same Cotton Eared listeners were oblivious to it when it was first released!
Guess you've never heard Stranglehold by Ted Nugent. That Bass line will groove your ears off.
treck87 Yeah man there are a few good bass riffs kicking around. Does it matter what his favourite is？
Every time I hear Liz I get goosebumps, I've been a fan for 40 years, simply haunting, magic voice
Liz Frasier's voice is incredible. This song is one of the moodiest and amazings songs ever!
This woman has the voice of an angel ... listening to her sing in Cocteau Twins used to give me goosebumps
Love, love is a verb
Love is a doing word
Fearless on my breath
Gentle impulsion
Shakes me, makes me lighter
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Fearless on my breath
Night, night after day
Black flowers blossom
Fearless on my breath
Black flowers blossom
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Fearless on my...
Water is my eye
Most faithful mirror
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Of a confession
Fearless on my breath
Most faithful mirror
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Fearless on my breath
You stumble in the dark
You stumble in the dark
Sofia Noiti Thanks for this
Ty so much for the lyrics.
Sofia Noiti AA
The most disputed line - start of second verse. Others hear it as "night, night of murder". (Bear in mind that mis-stressing words is a Fraser trademark, and the association of black flowers [and, indeed, "black milk"])
Grithron2 Nice to see the dispute brought up. Personally, I thought it was "night, night of matter".
I love her voice. I am in heaven now, it makes me cry because I look around and the mess of reality isn't matching up to the sheer perfection of what is going to my ears.
Nick Brannnigan 3 years later your comment is a perfect description of my present.
@@mariacelestegonzalez7600
The crackle and pop of the Vynil gives that vibe of the disturbed underneath it all, that the song hides.
yeah man. reality could be so much better. *hits blunt
Massive Attack have always choosen well with female guest artist on their albums.Stunning.
To be fair the late 80's/early 90's were awash with talent. We didn't realise it because we thought it'd always be like that.
I know the CT were earlier but there was a mashup from the 80's to the 90's that was just perfect, punk mixed with dub, house mixed with inidie, indie mixed with rock.
I'd never give up growing up during those years
Watching Liz Fraser sing is like taking an epic odyssey through one’s own feelings. What an artist. 🙌🏽
forgot how wicked these guys are...the new wave era in music was by far the most inspiring time ...and this coming from a self professed metalhead.....an EPIC trak...
Listening to this stoned is quite possibly the greatest thing you will ever hear. The subtle scratching and that guitar. Absolutely sublime.
I love the dark soulful music of the 90s.
Excuse me ??
TIMe 4 BeD ARthuR..........
try Portishead
Portishead isn't that dark, but I double this.
hoyit Trip Hop
Liz Fraser should have been so bigger and so more recognised than she is.
andy oliver Cocteau Twins? Pretty much recognized in my opinion
andy oliver Liz Fraser should have been so bigger and so more recognised than she is.
Braxium Go ask a random 100 people, and only a handful will know the name :
ruarc if you ask random people, you won't get answers. Because the 99% of the world population is made of plebs.
ruarc also, Cocteau Twins is an old band. They were popular back in their day though. Check their chart listings, if you don't believe me.
I want this song played at my funeral, the most heavenly song ever written. God sent Liz Frazer and her voice for us human.
And that groove... man... the drum and bass so tight...
So many years. Why haven't I come across this song before now? I need new friends...
Its beauty is blinding, it haunts my every day, and when I heard that it is dedicated to her deceased friend, Jeff Buckley... well... it cuts right through to my soul and leaves my eyes watery.
Very, very well done Massive Attack and Elizabeth. Bravo... bravo, bravissimo...
SolarMichael I had heard it in House but never realized it until a few days ago.
SolarMichael that song is a work of pure genius!!! it reaches places in my soul i didn't know i had!! amen michael!!--WILKE
SolarMichael well said
Amen to you EF & JB ♥
Never too late! You are with us now.
That bass keeps the song driving along and Liz Fraser’s voice on top is perfection!
One of the greatest songs ever recorded
Badass! I remember hearing this when "House" started. It was cool back then and even more badass now. I just never knew who it was. Life is good thanks to you guys!
Some songs can create such an emotion in people that other songs can not.
Mazzy Starr with Fade Into You, That beautiful black woman who sings At Last, John Lennon's Jealous Guy, George Harrison's Here Comes The Sun...... and this song right here.
amazing...
Thanks....
MuskateerGripWeed That beautiful black woman! Which one? Etta James :)
John Arundell yes that's her name, amazing woman.
+MuskateerGripWeed
Agreed, and for me
Sugarcubes - Regina
Cranberries - Dreams
miss Etta James sings At last :)
Amazing angel-singer, a true avant-garde artist, perfect for Massive Attack.
Her lyrics are about Jeff Buckley too so that makes even deeper.
+elevenart I had no idea the lyrics were about Buckley. Thanks!
+elevenart Not quite. From Wikipedia: "Fraser wrote the song's lyrics. While recording the song on 29 May 1997, she found out that her once-close friend, Jeff Buckley, had drowned. "That was so weird ... I'd got letters out and I was thinking about him. That song's kind of about him - that's how it feels to me anyway."
Mir van Zanten
as I said- it was about Jeff. Re-read it. Ciaociao
+elevenart it wasn't meant to but it became that while recording it
He did her wrong.
One of the greatest songs ever written. Incredibly haunting....
im almost 30 here and im right there with you! its rare to find a good piece of music now! grew up on Led Zepplin, Rolling Stones, Eagles and the rest. slowly progressed into other genres, but i find myself going back and listening to all the old classics because most stuff just doesnt compare to the soul that went into writing music, you used to be able to feel it.
Elizabeth Fraser is an absolute goddess of vocals. Massive attack know quality and put it to use. Both vocalist and musicians are massively (Pun intended if you like) underrated. Long live them both.
Since Blue Lines came out Ive been a major Fan of Massive Attack - unfortunatly I havent a chance to see them live yet its still on my list of things to do before I die
So many covers of this song and none can replicate the deep, dark sadness her voice conveys.
I agree. It was recorded right after Jeff Buckley’s passing. You feel her love and pain.
Some tunes just never leave you
The two most talented together! There are no words. Your heart stops with pain and longing. Tricky and Elizabeth so fucking incredibly talented..I can't stop listening..My heart wants to cry and burst at the same time.
I know this sounds strange, but I play this song and my animals totally relax to her voice. My dog hugs my iPad.
+Steph Rem That is so sweet!
Your animals have excellent taste. :)
I noticed today that her voice pacifies my one usually rambunctious cat.
+Steph Rem no strange/ my cat really like massive attack too :p
+Steph Rem This is one of my favourite songs. Never really thought it had such great potential :v . I am gonna try that on mine too :) .
Love Liz! This is a gem. Perfection, that never gets old.
Much love ❤
If I die and go to heaven, and the angels do not sound as amazing as Liz...I am asking to be sent wherever LIz is for eternity.
This track alwyas gives me goosebumps.. it's like I can feel some beautiful light shooting up...hopeful...and the darkness around it makes it shine even brighter...this sounds so human...conflict and cohesion flowing together in harmony
Life Affirming, and easily the best version on youtube. Grazie...
While recording the song in 1997, she found out that Jeff Buckley, whom she had formerly had a relationship with, had disappeared-later discovered to have drowned. In 2009, she said, "That was so weird ... I'd got letters out and I was thinking about him. That song's kind of about him-that's how it feels to me anyway".
*Masterpiece.* My favorite version of this jewel of a song.
Liz, the best female voice ever.
Pure perfection. Should be in the National Art Gallery.
Possibly one of the best songs of this century. Forever a classic for this human.
This is where healing starts, awesome.
I could not agree more with your comment. This song and arrangement are something else...WOW...
I have to admit...I was a Cocteau Twins fanatic, about 12 years ago when my ex-girlfriend turned me on to them. How naïve I was to think that this was a 2 girl band. Well, I thought, what the HELL.... Cocktail Twins can't be too bad, right?...this past weekend, while I was at work, I had a flashback to the band of twins..and could not remember their frickin name....My bad on that...Well, we have made up...I have re-discovered this absolutely incredible band. The nicest part, is that they are from my ancestry country of Scotland...But, the best and most amazing thing I want to say is that Liz Fraser has the most absolutely incredible voice that I have ever heard......I have no idea how she makes this music come alive and at the same time, sending absolute chills up and down my spine...Music like I have never heard. The only thing that makes it better is listening over and over in my head..CAPTIVATING..ELECTRIC..MOVING..SURREALISTIC...AND HAUNTING....A VOICE THAT I WILL NEVER FORGET...Massive Attack/Teardrop may be my most favorite song of all time...IT DOES NOT GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS...She puts her heart and soul into every note..THANK YOU LIZ FRASER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I cannot even imagine what it must've been like to be at their live shows in the 80's and 90's
It probably felt like being carried away from your body into the terrifying beautiful world.
I saw the Cocteaus in 1994 and it was magical. There is a show from 1991 (or 1990) on here that is fairly representative as it has soundboard audio laid over video and it really is a great experience.
Sitting in a dark room, sound up to the max, beautiful vibe, Cocteau familiar sound, Liz Fraser that unmistakably voice, ever so angelic, and smooth, with a way to shake up any song that she sings, absolutely one of her finest vocalist of her time..Amen to her for the forgotten voices of the unliving that should have lived!! Grace and Peace to You Liz!!!!
Breathtaking. Amazing live, brilliant performance, only the vibe has all the life of the world in it.
Liz Frasier's voice is incredible. This song is one of the moodiest and amazings songs ever!
Some tunes just never leave you
One of the best songs in history. I’ll never get tired of it.
Liz Frasier's voice is incredible. This song is one of the moodiest and amazings songs ever!
This is where healing starts, awesome.
One of those few places I comment but... the insanity level that the vocalist is at... it is insane. Quite stupendous.
Es la cosa más hermosa y más exquisita de este mundo. Te amo tanto, Liz, te amo tanto porque me sanas, me haces y me deshaces, me das fuerza y luz, sacas mi creatividad y mi amor, mi coraje. Gracias por existir admirada, amada y etérea Liz. 🖤
the bass dip at 0:11 gives me chills. love the instrumentation.
I will always love you Liz. I was on Lessa's Facebook page today, and I gave her a big nod too! I am so grateful for Massive Attack, Cocteau Twins, and Leesa for bringing it all together for me. I am so grateful.
Massive Attack is among my ten most favorite bands.....they are super cool !!
Def. in my top 5. No matter the genre.
Heavy, thick, slabs of deep groove melody married with one of the most amazing voices of the 20th Century. Amazing...
Not only Liz Fraser but Cocteau Twins are totally underrated, they were really one of the greatest bands of all times.
I love listening Liz's voice. This song is one of my favourite Massive Attack songs.
I love the dark soulful music of the 90s.
This is where healing starts, awesome.
Liz Fraser inigualável. unica, incrível!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Liz Fraser sings from inside and outside of her body simultaneously. I don't know any other singer like her. I was obsessed with Blue Bell Knoll in the eighties. Still sounds magical now.
Isn't it strange I love two female vocalists Liz Frazer and Lisa Gerrard both funnily created their own language..I do love others but both haunt you in away others don't
+Garth Davison And both were on 4AD records.
same here! the third language is very ethereal :) what other music recommendations do you have
+Garth Davison Have you heard of Jennifer Charles of Elysian Fields. She has a very sultry voice, but kind of has that "I don't know what the hell she is saying most of the time, but I love it" style of singing as well. She also fronts another band called Lovage. They are both pretty good bands :)
More noises and sounds than a language.................
Couldn't agree more :-) I remember hearing Songs of the Siren and I honestly thought, on first hearing, it was Lisa Gerrard it was so similar..Lisa Gerrard came from as I'm sure you know The Dead Can Dance and then went on to do other things Liz again from the Cocteau Twins and famous for Pearly Dew Drops Drops one of my favs went and did other things as well..So we have two woman from different continents that have a similar tone and singing qualities..How weird is that..I bet Liz could have done Gladiator as well
Go Liz.. go Massive Attack - best song EVER
I have always fancied Elizabeth Fraser and always will, I fell head over heels for her in the 80s when I too was a teenager and she still looking good , if there is a song I like best it would be From The Flagstones because everything the Cocteau Twins made is good listening and watching, I really love the video Pearly Dewdrops Drops shot in a church.
That's where I've heard her when I was a child. From Alice to this song, i'm discovering Elizabeth Fraser. Sadly our musical styles don't collide, her voice is a true angel gift.
Wow ! only knew the album version ! My God Liz .... you are God's resonance !! i love you .
first time ever hearing liz i love her voice.
David Hernandez t
One of my top 10. 7am on the dancefloor almost brings tears. Massive Attack, They make the world a better place
They chose the right voice, as wonderful as "Ray Of Light" is, Madonna would not have elevated this track to the same heights, Liz Fraser absolutely smokes, can't stop playing it! :).
madonna still got to make a song with them.
Madonna is not even close to Elizabeth Frasier. That's like comparing bananas to a sour Pear.
Madonna doesn't even come close in the vocal range and emotion.
Awesome! Increíble! Una de las mejores performance en vivo de Teardrop
I rarely would say this being the ambassador of multiple styles and genres, but Massive Attack has to be one of the best groups/projects ever. Period. I don't know how much goosebumps I can take from that bass...
another Massive Attack song which went over the heads of everyone until it had left the charts. Hard to believe there was no #1 but in our favour it has preserved the integrity of their music.
Love, love is a verb
Love is a doing word
Fearless on my breath
Gentle impulsion
Shakes me, makes me lighter
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Fearless on my breath
Night, night of matter
Black flowers blossom
Fearless on my breath
Black flowers blossom
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Fearless on my
Water is my eye
Most faithful mirror
Fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire
Of a confession
Fearless on…
thank U
This was great to watch.
I'm a big Cocteau Twins follower and enjoyed every minute of this.
I saw Cocteau in the 80ies, Stockholm, Kolingsborg, they had released their first album, which I like a lot.
It was raw, have followed and there are just some amazing tracks along the road.
Best opening line of any song ever ...
Love, love is a verb ... love is a doing word
Beautiful and utterly true.
An amazing arrangement! Just one of the most beautiful tunes like a previous comment a tune that just never leaves you-:)-:) Thank you for uploading this video here!
Liz Frasier's voice is incredible. This song is one of the moodiest and amazings songs ever!
dopest bass line ever lol. seriously, track will always give me goosebumps
Liz Frazer, wonderful vocalist!
Thank you Liz, for your contribution to what I deem as contemporary music. From Cocteau twins, to the FSOL and Massive attack, you have consistently delivered singing out of this planet. I can't express my appreciation in words, they lose their meaning. So, thank you.
She is good on Downside Up, with Peter Gabriel, as well, not to mention her tracks with Felt and Dif Juz from the 80s and the remix of Time Baby by Medicine from the Crow soundtrack. Oh, and Candleland with Ian McCulloch (Look for the Second Coming version, she is on that much more), and there is a track from his second album Mysterio that she sings on called "Heaven's Gate". Robin produced that and Vibour Blue from the album, and two B-sides called Ribbons and Chains and Birdy, and if you ever wondered what Cocteau Twins would sound like with a male lead singer, listen to Ribbons and Chains, holy shit.
That fkn bass line makes my hair stand up, just simple & straight to the soul.
Whenever I need to come down from this life, take a step back, do a soul check, and relax I listen to Liz Fraser. Especially The Cocteau Twins. Something about her voice just resets my spirit. Her voice is Angelic.
I love the way the lyrics are undecipherable, as well as the egyptian or morrocan melody. just a very cool morsel of music!
The best female vocalist of the past 50 years. I always imagine Liz Fraser being alive in the 1500's, and royalty and the wealthy coming from all around to hear her sing. Like a Mozart of singing.
I love the dark soulful music of the 90s.
dopest bass line ever lol. seriously, track will always give me goosebumps
This is truly the epitome of 'ethereal'
Awesome version... My wife liked it too... Thanks for putting this out there... And yeah, Liz is awesome!
Massive Attack seemed like a collective of talented perfectionist, musicians with a few core members. Much like Steely Dan.
Liz had an interview in The Guardian in 2009 and it shed alot of light on the lyrics she wrote to this song and it's connection to the late, amazingly talented Jeff Buckley. They had a connection you can tell is still extremely strong and painful for her today. Not to mention they have a duet you can find on here that got leaked a few years ago and it's simply two of the most amazing voices I have ever heard!!!
Her vocals coupled with that bass line is ❤️🎶❤️
First heard this on the radio In the spring of 98. It was a good year for music but this was my highlight, love it.
Elizabeth Fraser owns it. Period.
Moody, powerful and gloriously wonderful. It lets your mind just soar as she sings.
The lyrics was written by Elizabeth Fraser (Cocteau Twins) for Jeff Buckley. When the Jeff Buckley's gone, his lover Liz Fraser wrote that song. It's so specially.
Were they lovers? I'm sure Jeff Buckley was dating Joan Wasser of Joan As Policewoman when he passed away. But yes, I've read that this song was recorded by Elizabeth on the day Jeff died so it is, in a sense, about him.
When you listen to her interview in his documentary, you can tell he never really left her heart.
I thought Liz Fraser was in a long term relationship with Robin Guthrie.
She dated Jeff for two years :))
From what I understand, Liz and Jeff dated, but it ended before he passed away. Before that, she was in a relationship with Robin Guthrie, from the begiining of the Cocteau Twins to the early 90s. After Jeff Buckley, Liz got into a relationship with Damon Reece of Spiritualized.
Beyond beautiful. Sensual, dreamy, music to take you away to heavenly places ❤
Qu’il est sublime ce morceau, il ne pouvait en être autrement avec la voix angélique de la chanteuse de Cocteau Twins 🖤
This stirs up so much emotion in me, and feeling emotion doesn't come easy for me. Brilliant composition and voice
Liz Fraser’s amazing vocals, I miss the Cocteau Twins...
Her voice is smooth and divine as pure as teardrop with that baseline music which depicts the pain and pleasure of our universe
If Elizabeth Fraser left this world and came back as a ghost,
I would be OK for her to haunt me
Liz Fraser's voice has been with me since the beginning of the Cocteau Twins, through This Mortal Coil and Massive Attack. Her voice is like a living angel, vulnerable, delicate. When I want to drift away from this world in my thoughts and struggles she is there to assist.
Fantastic - the entire album.
OMG! The chills! What an amazing collaboration - Bristol meets Grangemouth, Scotland!
Have loved Elizabeth since very early days: "Cocteau Twins/This Mortal Coil" era and Massive Attack since 'Blue Lines' - not as young as I once was, but they really DON'T make music like this anymore - maybe that's a good thing, I dunno - jus' saying' - but ALL hip, break, acid house, you name it comes from artists such as these! Unrepeatable and unforgettable