The Veldt ‘Aurora Borealis’ single previews long-lost album, produced by Cocteau Twins’ Robin Guthrie
(Photo by Alice Teeple) The Veldt has released their new single “Aurora Borealis”, originally from 1989 and produced by Robin Guthrie of Cocteau Twins. Elizabeth Fraser contributes backing vocals towards the end of the track. Accompanying this is a B-side remix by The Veldt from the early 2000s.
This single is a preview of the “Illuminated 1989” album, produced by Guthrie in 1989 and remastered in 2023. Originally intended as their debut, the album was set aside by Capitol Records, leading to the release of “Marigolds” produced by Lincoln Fong. The “Illuminated 1989” album will be available in various formats via Little Cloud Records and 5BC Records later this year.
Another track, “The Everlasting Gobstopper”, was released on vinyl, featuring the B-side “Joshuu Lullaby”, produced by Guthrie in 2023. The music video for this track was created by Jammi York and Yuko Sueta.
Daniel Chavis comments on the song’s background, mentioning it was inspired by his brother’s affection for his newborn daughter. Danny Chavis notes the song’s origins from 1986 and its influences from Cocteau Twins’ “Treasure” and RUN DMC’s “Sucker MC’s”.
The Veldt consists of twins Daniel (vocals, guitar) and Danny Chavis (guitar). Their sound draws from various influences, including Cocteau Twins, Marvin Gaye, and jazz artists Sun Ra and Pharaoh Sanders.
Originating from Raleigh’s vibrant music scene in the late 80s, The Veldt initially signed with Mammoth Records. This led to tours across Europe and the U.S., sharing stages with notable bands. After relocating to New York, they briefly performed as Apollo Heights before reverting to The Veldt. The band later welcomed bassist-programmer Hayato Nakao.
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