Biography
Formed in 1993 as a writing partnership between guitarists Ian Ford and Pete Thomas, These Crimson Dreams became a three-piece with the addition of Cornish vocalist Tamsin. From the outset TCD's sound was characterised by ethereal vocals above and within a complex layering of guitar textures, hypnotic bass lines and heavy electronic percussion. Despite experimentation with numerous line-up formats, this trio remained the creative core of the band, and since 1999 have remained the sole band members.
While TCD draw inspiration from a great many sources, includingCocteau Twins, Cranes, Loop, The Cure, The Jesus and Mary Chain, My Bloody Valentine, Pink Floyd and The Sisters of Mercy, their sound remains uncompromisingly "other", resisting categorization.
TCD's first release Heads on Fire in 1997 was mixed by James Ray and included Berlin, written my James Ray.
TCD's second release Transitory Surface in 1999 included singer and keyboard player Jules and blended highly orchestral arrangements with wall-of-noise guitar textures.
"Corrigenda", released in 2000 marked a watershed in TCD's evolution, hinting at a change to a much sparser, minimalist sound. Previous recordings had tried to emulate the beautiful chaos of TCD's live performances and this album assembles a number of previously unreleased tracks and live favourites. Drowning and Untitled were subsequently released on the Drowning EP. Edie (Tunguska Mix) is a cover of the James Ray & The Performance song “Edie Sedgwick”. Tamsin also sang on a later re-release of Edie by James Rays Gangwar on the Psychodalek album.
The Drowning EP was originally planned as a pre-release prior to a new studio album. However serious illness meant These Crimson Dreams had to take an extended hiatus. However TCD continue to write and record, and a new studio album is in the works. In November 2010 the mini-album Manaslu was released exclusively on Last FM to allow fans a sneak preview of current TCD material. the album includes the James Ray remix of Salvation.
TCD are most at home on stage, and gigged throughout the UK from 94, culminating in the Infinity Tour in 2000 with long time friends and collaborators Faithful Dawn.
These Crimson Dreams have, in recent years, been working with James Ray in various recording and live projects including 4080Peru and 25Men.
Tracks from Heads on Fire, Corrigenda, and Manaslu can also be downloaded from http://soundcloud.com/thesecrimsondreams
You can also connect with These Crimson Dreams at:
http://www.myspace.com/thesecrimsondreams
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