"Crocodile Tears And The Velvet Cosh" on CD captures David J in one of his most distinctive creative phases, blending noir-tinged songwriting, evocative storytelling and a sparse, atmospheric production aesthetic. The album moves between introspective ballads and shadowy, cabaret-like pieces, with lyrics that are both literate and emotionally charged. Subtle arrangements of guitars, bass, occasional keys and carefully placed percussion create a cinematic soundscape that rewards attentive listening and reveals new details with every play. This CD edition offers a focused, album-oriented experience that highlights the sharp contrasts between tender melodies and darker, more experimental passages, making it an essential item for fans of sophisticated alternative music with a poetic edge.
David J is best known as a founding member and bassist of the influential post-punk band Bauhaus and later of Love and Rockets, two groups that helped shape the sound and aesthetics of gothic rock and alternative music. Beyond his band work, he has built a respected solo career with a series of albums noted for their lyrical depth, narrative songwriting and willingness to explore jazz, folk and art-rock influences. His long-standing impact on underground and alternative culture, as well as his collaborations across diverse artistic scenes, have earned him a dedicated international following and a reputation as an innovative, boundary-pushing songwriter and musician.
The CD is released by Cargo UK, a well-established independent distributor and label partner known for its strong presence in the alternative, indie and experimental music world. Cargo UK has a long history of supporting artists outside the mainstream, helping to bring distinctive and individual voices to a wider audience through careful curation and reliable distribution. Their catalogue spans a broad range of genres, with a particular emphasis on quality, artistic integrity and long-term artist development, making this release part of a trusted lineage of independent music.