Heaven or Las Vegas cover

Heaven or Las Vegas

Cocteau Twins

Album 1990

About this album

Sound: "Ethereal melodies intertwine with lush instrumentals, creating a dreamlike landscape that feels both intimate and expansive."

Where they were

Released on September 17, 1990, 'Heaven or Las Vegas' was Cocteau Twins' fifth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'Four-Calendar Café.' At this point in their career, they had already established themselves as pioneers of the dream pop genre, and this album marked a significant moment in their evolution, showcasing a more accessible sound while retaining their unique ethereal quality.

Why it matters

'Heaven or Las Vegas' received widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike, often cited as one of the band's best works. Its influence can be seen in the rise of shoegaze and dream pop movements during the early '90s, and it has been included in numerous lists of essential albums, solidifying its place in alternative music history.

Essential tracks

  • "Cherry‐Coloured Funk" — The opening track sets the tone with its vibrant instrumentation and captivating vocal harmonies, encapsulating the album's dreamy essence.
  • "Iceblink Luck" — This track features hauntingly beautiful melodies and intricate guitar work, representing the band's signature sound while appealing to a broader audience.
  • "Heaven or Las Vegas" — As the title track, it combines ethereal vocals with an infectious rhythm, making it a standout that illustrates the album's thematic depth.

Release Date

September 17, 1990

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Cherry‐Coloured Funk 3:12
  2. 2 Pitch the Baby 3:17
  3. 3 Iceblink Luck 3:18
  4. 4 Fifty‐Fifty Clown 3:15
  5. 5 Heaven or Las Vegas 4:57
  6. 6 I Wear Your Ring 3:40
  7. 7 Fotzepolitic 3:31
  8. 8 Wolf in the Breast 3:32
  9. 9 Road, River and Rail 3:21
  10. 10 Frou‐Frou Foxes in Midsummer Fires 5:36