Cranes – The Gothic Minimalists
The British music group Cranes is a unique blend of gothic minimalism, with elements of dream-pop and ambient rock. Formed in 1985 by siblings Alison and Jim Shaw, the band has been making music for over three decades, releasing ten studio albums and several EPs. Their sound is characterized by Alison's ethereal vocals, Jim's atmospheric guitar work, and a haunting backdrop of electronic synth and percussion.
Cranes has been a prominent figure in the alternative music scene since the late 1980s, and their innovative sound has influenced many other bands in the genre. The band's early albums, including Wings of Joy (1991) and Forever (1993), were critical and commercial successes, and garnered a loyal fan base in Europe and North America.
Recent Achievements
Cranes has been relatively quiet in recent years, but they have not been idle. In 2020, the band released a new album, called 'The Last Songs.' The album features ten new tracks, including the haunting 'In the Night,' which showcases Alison's signature vocals and Jim's intricate guitar work.
The Last Songs is a departure from the band's previous albums, with a darker, more introspective tone. The album was recorded in the band's own studio, and highlights Cranes' unique approach to songwriting and production. 'The Last Songs' has received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, and marks a new chapter in the band's long and storied history.
Future Plans
Cranes has always been an enigmatic band, and their future plans are shrouded in mystery. However, the band has hinted at a few upcoming projects that should excite their fans.
Firstly, Cranes has announced that they will be releasing a vinyl box set featuring all ten of their studio albums. The set will include remastered versions of the albums, along with rare and unreleased tracks. The box set is a must-have for any Cranes fan, and is sure to be a collector's item in years to come.
Secondly, Cranes has hinted at a possible tour in the near future. The band has not toured extensively in recent years, but has played the occasional show in Europe and the UK. A full tour would be a welcome return for the band, and a chance for fans to experience Cranes' unique sound live.
Conclusion
Cranes is a band that has always marched to the beat of their own drum, and their unique approach to music has earned them a loyal following. With their recent album release, The Last Songs, and the upcoming vinyl box set and possible tour, Cranes is poised to reach a new generation of fans and cement their place as one of the most innovative bands of their genre. It's a great time to be a Cranes fan, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for this enigmatic and talented group.