In One Ear: Simon Raymonde Reflects on Cocteau Twins and a Life in Music
The 1980s birthed many iconic bands, but few were as distinctive as Cocteau Twins. This Scottish-London trio, composed of Elizabeth Fraser, Robin Guthrie, and Simon Raymonde, captivated listeners with their ethereal sound and enigmatic charm. Fraser's vocals seemed to transcend language, creating a dreamlike atmosphere, while the music itself evoked images of celestial light cascading down cathedral walls. With poetic song titles like For Phoebe Still a Baby and Sugar Hiccup, Cocteau Twins crafted a sound that felt otherworldly.
In his memoir, In One Ear, Raymonde seeks to unravel some of the band's mystique, reminding readers that behind the ethereal sound, they were still very much human. He humorously admits that they weren't "a cerebral bunch of intellectuals" but rather individuals who enjoyed watching Rab C Nesbitt on TV. Despite their down-to-earth nature, the band was known for being obstinate, famously turning down opportunities like performing on Top of the Pops and working with Brian Eno.
The memoir takes its title from a personal moment in Raymonde's life when he developed acoustic neuroma 20 years ago, leaving him partially deaf. Yet the tone of the book is amiable and conversational. Raymonde reflects on the highs and lows of his career, from the band's eventual breakup in 1997—amidst personal tensions and drug issues—to his successful second act founding Bella Union, an independent label. He nurtured talents like Father John Misty and Fleet Foxes, though the latter's abrupt departure to Warner Records left him heartbroken.
While In One Ear doesn't delve deeply into Fraser's personal life—her enigmatic presence remains intact—it shines a light on Raymonde's place within the band and his contributions to their legacy. Though he sometimes felt like a "spare wheel," he played a key role in creating some of their most iconic tracks, including Pearly-Dewdrops' Drops. Ultimately, the book serves as a heartfelt reflection on a life dedicated to music, reminding readers of the timeless beauty Cocteau Twins left behind.
