ELIZABETH FRASER – Moses

Elizabeth Fraser. The name alone conjures up flashbacks of the neon-spewing Eighties synth and New Wave. The Cocteau Twins breakup broke hearts in 1997, but allowed members to pursue other realms of sound and possibilities. However, the fans still pleaded for more and now, a new dose of Fraser has reached listeners’ ears, though not under the preferred circumstances.

Fraser dedicates Moses to close personal friend, Jake Drake-Brockman, who passed away in September, and it is a melancholy and moving tribute. Fraser is indisputably one of the finest vocalists to emerge from the latter part of the 20th century, and the single, “Moses,” does the part well for showcasing her solo. In classic, unfailing, Elizabeth Fraser style, the sound, itself, outdoes any lyrical meaning and thus creates an abstract experience that is unique to every listener.

Also on the album are two remixes of “Moses” by Thighpaulsandra (ie., Tim Lewis, formerly of Coil, Queen Elizabeth, Spiritualized) and Andy Jenks (of Spaceland, and The Flies). They complement the track, but are not altogether necessary. Thighpaulsandra’s remix takes a bit of a Latin turn, while the remix by Jenks is…well, spacey. Their variations are more or less subtle than one would’ve hoped, but nonetheless, worthwhile. When played through, the album runs together to create an ambient flow of hypnotic pop. What more were we expecting?

(Rough Trade Records, 66 Golborne Road, London, W10 5PS UK)