Lloyd Cole & The Commotions burst onto the music scene in 1982 from Glasgow, where Cole, a philosophy and English student, crafted a unique sound that stood apart from the glossy synth-pop dominating the 1980s. Their debut album, Rattlesnakes, released in October 1984, is a timeless gem that showcases their intense, melodic, guitar-driven pop, paired with clever lyrics rich in literary references.
Produced by Paul Hardiman and featuring string arrangements by Anne Dudley, Rattlesnakes includes beloved tracks like ‘Perfect Skin,’ ‘Forest Fire,’ and the title song. The album quickly became a favorite among critics and fans alike, capturing the essence of a time when university-educated musicians were rare. Cole’s lyrics introduced listeners to a world filled with cultural allusions, from Norman Mailer to Eva Marie Saint, all wrapped in beautifully crafted pop melodies.
Track Listing:
- 1. Perfect Skin
- 2. Speedboat
- 3. Rattlesnakes
- 4. Down On Mission Street
- 5. Forest Fire
- 6. Charlotte Street
- 7. 2CV
- 8. Four Flights Up
- 9. Patience
- 10. Are You Ready to Be Heartbroken?
Experience one of the best 1980s indie pop albums by adding Rattlesnakes to your collection today!
John Murray (verified owner) –
Rattlesnakes is a masterpiece! The combination of sharp lyrics and beautiful melodies makes it one of the best 1980s indie pop albums. A must-have for any music lover!
Carol Pittman (verified owner) –
I recently purchased Rattlesnakes on vinyl, and it sounds fantastic! Lloyd Cole captures so much emotion in his music. Highly recommend for anyone exploring 1980s music.
Cathy Howell (verified owner) –
The album Rattlesnakes is an absolute gem. I love how Lloyd Cole weaves literary references into his songs. It’s refreshing to hear such depth in pop music.