Description

This Mortal Coil – It’ll End in Tears – Vinyl Record

It’ll End in Tears is the debut album of the collective project This Mortal Coil, released in 1984. Spearheaded by Ivo Watts-Russell, co-founder of the 4AD record label, This Mortal Coil was not a band in the traditional sense but a collaborative project involving artists associated with the label. The album features a mix of original tracks and cover versions of songs from various artists, delivered in a dreamy, ethereal style that became synonymous with the 4AD label.

It’ll End in Tears showcases a hauntingly beautiful blend of gothic rock, dream pop, and ethereal wave, genres that defined much of the 4AD catalog. The album includes contributions from members of Cocteau Twins, Dead Can Dance, and Modern English, among others, making it a showcase of the label’s leading talents.

Key Tracks

‘Song to the Siren’ – Originally by Tim Buckley, this cover is performed by Elizabeth Fraser of Cocteau Twins. Fraser’s ethereal vocals over minimalist instrumentation have made this track one of the most enduring and beloved renditions, often considered a highlight of the album.

‘Kangaroo’ – This cover of a Big Star song is rendered with a haunting and atmospheric approach, transforming the original into a somber, poignant track that fits seamlessly with the album’s mood.

‘Another Day’ – Originally by Roy Harper, this song features the vocals of Kate St. John and the minimalist, atmospheric backing that characterizes much of the album.

‘Holocaust’ – Another cover of a Big Star song, this track is delivered with a stark and deeply emotional style, providing one of the album’s most moving moments.

The production on It’ll End in Tears is noted for its rich, layered soundscapes that envelop the listener. The album’s style is marked by its lush reverb, ethereal vocal performances, and a general atmosphere of melancholic beauty. It’s a sound that would influence not only artists within the 4AD roster but also the wider alternative music scene, impacting genres like shoegaze and ambient music.

Upon its release, It’ll End in Tears was met with critical acclaim for its innovative approach to music production and its transformative interpretations of known songs. The album’s success helped to cement 4AD’s reputation as a label for innovative and genre-defying music.

Over the years, It’ll End in Tears has continued to be revered as a seminal album in the post-punk and ethereal wave scenes. Its influence can be seen in the work of many artists who have followed, and it remains a touchstone for fans of the label and the genres it helped to popularize. This Mortal Coil’s approach to collaboration and genre fusion continues to inspire new generations of musicians and producers exploring the intersections of ambient, gothic, and dream pop music.

Gatefold cover

The new deluxe vinyl versions differ from the original releases with each album having had its artwork reimagined. Remastered audio made from the original analogue studio tapes in 2010.

High gloss gatefold sleeve. Comes with a black poly lined inner next to a separate high gloss inner.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal

Track Listing
Kangaroo
Song To The Siren
Holocaust
Fyt
Fond Affections
The Last Ray
Another Day
Waves Become Wings
Barramundi
Dreams Made Flesh
Not Me
A Single Wish