La Roux/ Cocteau Twins

This week I have mostly been listening to the remastered 1990 album by Cocteau Twins 'Heaven or Las Vegas' and the new release from La Roux 'Trouble in Paradise', both perfect for these barmy summer days.

I never really got Cocteau Twins at the time, I found their otherworldly sound too alien. But listening to them now I can appreciate how timeless they sound. Elizabeth Frazer uses her voice as an instrument, bending and twisting her words and sounds to beguiling effect leaving the lyrics barely recognisable. Coupled with Robin Guthrie's shimmering guitar the overall dizzying effect is like a massive sugar rush, and so unlike anything else released in 1990.

It's been five years since La Roux's critically acclaimed debut album. Without being a massive departure Trouble in Paradise is easier to embrace - less ice cool and detached and in Sexotheque boasts a bonafide summer pop classic.