Back catalogue: All genres

Review: The extensive box set Collected Works Vol 1' offers a comprehensive exploration of Cranes' groundbreaking output on the Dedicated label from 1989 to 1997. Spanning albums, B-sides, remixes, rarities and live recordings, this curated collection provides a thorough retrospective of the band's evolution over their initial ten-year incarnation. Led by siblings Alison and Jim Shaw, Cranes established themselves as one of the most distinctive bands of the late 1980s and 1990s, transcending categorization with their ever-mutating sound. From the raw intensity of their 1989 mini album Self-Non-Self to the sophisticated grandeur of 1997's Population Four, Cranes showcased a sonic diversity that defied genre conventions. Curated by singer Alison Shaw and adorned with artwork by 4AD graphic design legend Chris Bigg, Collected Works Vol 1 serves as a poignant reminder of Cranes' magnificence. Their journey from stark, noisy soundscapes to bolder, more intricate arrangements reflects their unparalleled ability to traverse ethereal rock, dream pop, shoegaze, industrial, and neo-classical realms. For fans, this box set is a treasure trove, offering a deep dive into Cranes' musical legacy. For the curious, it provides an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of one of the finest bands of the 1990s.