The Raincoats are a pioneering all-female post-punk band hailing from London, England. Formed in 1977, the band has become known for their unique and innovative approach to music-making, blending elements of punk, folk, and experimental music to create a sound that is both distinct and influential. The band’s music has been praised for its raw energy, fearless experimentation, and socially conscious themes, making them a seminal figure in the punk and post-punk music scenes. With a discography spanning over four decades, it can be challenging to narrow down the best songs from such a prolific band. However, we have compiled a list of the top 10 Best The Raincoats Songs of All Time, taking into consideration the band’s impact on music history, their unique style, and the emotional resonance of their music. From iconic punk anthems to dreamy introspective ballads, these 10 songs represent the best of The Raincoats’ vast and influential discography.
1. Lola
“Lola” by The Raincoats is a cover of the famous song by The Kinks. The Raincoats bring their own unique and raw interpretation to the song, which is evident from the very beginning with their unconventional use of a recorder as the opening instrument. The band’s signature off-beat rhythms and intricate harmonies are also present throughout the song, giving it a distinct punk and experimental vibe. Lead vocalist Ana da Silva’s husky and emotive voice adds an extra layer of depth and personality to the already iconic lyrics. The Raincoats’ version of “Lola” is a testament to the band’s fearless approach to music-making and their ability to take a classic song and make it their own. The band’s DIY ethos and feminist perspectives are also reflected in their rendition of the song, which challenges traditional gender norms and explores themes of sexuality and identity. Overall, “Lola” is a standout track in The Raincoats’ discography and a testament to their influential status in the post-punk and feminist music scenes.
2. No Side to Fall In
“No Side to Fall In” by The Raincoats is a fast-paced and energetic punk rock anthem that showcases the band’s raw and unapologetic sound. The song’s driving bassline and urgent guitar riffs are complemented by the band’s signature off-beat rhythms and shouty, almost chant-like vocals. The lyrics, which touch on themes of social isolation and feeling lost in the world, are delivered with a sense of urgency and sincerity that is characteristic of The Raincoats’ music. “No Side to Fall In” is a standout track on The Raincoats’ eponymous debut album, which is widely regarded as a landmark release in the punk and post-punk genres. The song’s raw energy and uncompromising attitude have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Overall, “No Side to Fall In” is a powerful and influential song that captures the spirit of The Raincoats’ music and their enduring legacy in the punk rock canon.
3. Fairytale in the Supermarket
“Fairytale in the Supermarket” by The Raincoats is a raucous and playful punk rock song that celebrates the joys of consumer culture and everyday life. The band’s signature off-beat rhythms and intricate harmonies are on full display, giving the song a unique and infectious energy. Lead vocalist Gina Birch’s sing-speak delivery is both sardonic and sincere, capturing the contradictions of modern life with a sharp wit and a sense of humor. The song’s playful lyrics and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a testament to The Raincoats’ influential status in the punk and post-punk music scenes.
4. No One’s Little Girl
“No One’s Little Girl” by The Raincoats is a poignant and powerful song that confronts issues of gender, power, and identity. The song’s slow and deliberate pace, coupled with the band’s sparse instrumentation, creates a haunting and intimate atmosphere that allows the lyrics to take center stage. Lead vocalist Ana da Silva’s emotive voice delivers the song’s powerful message with a sense of vulnerability and defiance. The song’s themes of female empowerment and self-determination are particularly resonant, making “No One’s Little Girl” a timeless and influential feminist anthem.
5. Adventures Close to Home
“Adventures Close to Home” by The Raincoats is a melancholic and introspective song that explores themes of isolation and longing. The song’s slow and moody tempo is complemented by the band’s atmospheric instrumentation, creating a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. Lead vocalist Ana da Silva’s emotive voice delivers the song’s poetic lyrics with a sense of longing and introspection. The song’s themes of emotional vulnerability and self-discovery are particularly resonant, making “Adventures Close to Home” a standout track in The Raincoats’ discography. Overall, “Adventures Close to Home” is a powerful and emotional song that showcases The Raincoats’ unique and innovative approach to music-making.
6. In Love
“In Love” by The Raincoats is a dreamy and introspective song that explores the complexities of romantic relationships. The song’s slow and languid pace, coupled with the band’s atmospheric instrumentation, creates a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. Lead vocalist Ana da Silva’s emotive voice delivers the song’s poetic lyrics with a sense of longing and introspection, capturing the emotional highs and lows of falling in love. The song’s themes of emotional vulnerability and intimacy are particularly resonant, making “In Love” a standout track in The Raincoats’ discography.
7. The Void
“The Void” by The Raincoats is a haunting and atmospheric song that explores themes of isolation and existential dread. The song’s sparse instrumentation and slow tempo create a sense of emptiness and detachment, perfectly capturing the mood of the lyrics. Lead vocalist Gina Birch’s emotive voice delivers the song’s introspective lyrics with a sense of vulnerability and introspection, making “The Void” a powerful and haunting track in The Raincoats’ discography.
8. Off Duty Trip
“Off Duty Trip” by The Raincoats is a playful and experimental song that showcases the band’s unique and innovative approach to music-making. The song’s unconventional use of sound effects and spoken word samples, coupled with the band’s off-beat rhythms and intricate harmonies, creates a playful and energetic atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of The Raincoats’ music. Lead vocalist Ana da Silva’s playful delivery adds an extra layer of personality to the already vibrant lyrics, making “Off Duty Trip” a standout track in The Raincoats’ discography. Overall, “Off Duty Trip” is a testament to The Raincoats’ fearless approach to music-making and their enduring influence in the punk and post-punk music scenes.
9. Black and White
“Black and White” by The Raincoats is a dynamic and energetic punk rock song that showcases the band’s raw and unbridled energy. The song’s driving bassline and frenzied guitar riffs, coupled with the band’s off-beat rhythms and urgent vocals, create a sense of urgency and rebelliousness that perfectly captures the spirit of punk rock. Lead vocalist Ana da Silva’s powerful delivery adds an extra layer of intensity to the already vibrant lyrics, making “Black and White” a standout track in The Raincoats’ discography.
10. Shouting Out Loud
“Shouting Out Loud” by The Raincoats is a politically charged and socially conscious song that confronts issues of inequality and injustice. The song’s driving bassline and urgent guitar riffs, coupled with the band’s off-beat rhythms and urgent vocals, create a sense of urgency and activism that perfectly captures the spirit of punk rock. Lead vocalist Gina Birch’s emotive delivery adds an extra layer of passion to the already powerful lyrics, making “Shouting Out Loud” a standout track in The Raincoats’ discography. The song’s themes of social justice and political activism are particularly resonant, making “Shouting Out Loud” a testament to The Raincoats’ enduring influence on the punk and post-punk music scenes.