Was Lloyd Cole's Band Called "The Rattlesnakes" Or The Commotions?

When discussing the iconic British indie music scene of the 1980s, one name that often comes up is Lloyd Cole. Known for his distinctive voice and poetic songwriting, Cole gained recognition as the frontman of a band. However, there seems to be some confusion among fans and music enthusiasts regarding the name of Cole's band. Was it "The Rattlesnakes" or "The Commotions"? Let's clarify this once and for all.

The answer is simple: Lloyd Cole's band was originally called "The Commotions." Formed in 1982, the band consisted of Lloyd Cole as the lead vocalist and guitarist, Neil Clark on guitar, Blair Cowan on keyboards, Lawrence Donegan on bass, and Stephen Irvine on drums. Under this lineup, they released their debut album, Rattlesnakes, in 1984.

It is worth noting that the confusion surrounding the band's name may stem from the fact that their debut album was named "Rattlesnakes." This album, often considered a masterpiece of indie pop, featured hits like "Perfect Skin" and "Forest Fire." The critical acclaim and commercial success of Rattlesnakes firmly established Lloyd Cole and The Commotions as a force to be reckoned with.

Throughout the band's career, they released three more albums: Easy Pieces (1985), Mainstream (1987), and Don't Get Weird on Me Babe (1991). Each album showcased Cole's introspective songwriting and the band's evolving musical style. However, despite the band's success, tensions within the group ultimately led to their breakup in 1989.

After the disbandment of The Commotions, Lloyd Cole embarked on a solo career, releasing several critically acclaimed albums. Despite this, his earlier work with The Commotions remains beloved by fans and continues to influence new generations of indie musicians.

So, to settle the debate once and for all, Lloyd Cole's band was indeed called "The Commotions." However, the confusion may have arisen due to their debut album, Rattlesnakes, which is often associated with the band's name. Regardless, the music created by Lloyd Cole and The Commotions during their time together remains timeless and essential for any indie music enthusiast.

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