CocoRosie Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is CocoRosie? A Brief Career Overview

Meet CocoRosie, the enchanting musical project brought to life by sisters Sierra Rose "Rosie" Casady and Bianca Leilani "Coco" Casady. This innovative duo seamlessly blends genres, including art pop, folktronica, and freak folk, each song a delicate tapestry of hip-hop, opera, and the extraordinary sounds of everyday life. Since their inception in 2003, CocoRosie has captivated audiences with their whimsical, experimental approach to music-making.

From their debut album, La Maison de Mon Rêve in 2004 to their latest release, Put The Shine On, their profound impact on the music industry is undeniable. They quickly garnered a reputation for their unique sound and artistic depth, challenging conventional music norms while exploring themes rooted in their rich personal history. Furthermore, their vinyl releases have become a cherished part of music culture, bringing their ethereal sound into the tactile world of collectors. CocoRosie's innovative spirit and indelible mark on the music scene make them an essential part of the modern vinyl experience.

CocoRosie's Early Life and Background

Born into an artistic and nomadic family, Sierra and Bianca Casady experienced a childhood shaped by constant change. Sierra was born on June 9, 1980, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, while Bianca followed on March 27, 1982, in Hilo, Hawaii. Their parents' divorce when they were very young meant the girls moved almost yearly, living in places like Hawaii, Arizona, California, and New Mexico. Their mother, Christina Chalmers, was an artist and Steiner/Waldorf teacher, immersed in New Age spirituality and the arts, often introducing them to culture and creativity.

The girls grew up steeped in diverse influences, often crafting their own instruments from household items and honing their vocal skills in unique environments. These experiences cultivated a profound love for music that would later intertwine with their passion for vinyl records, as they transformed everyday sounds into melodies. This unconventional upbringing laid the groundwork for the inventive artistry that defines CocoRosie today.

The Musical Influences That Shaped CocoRosie's Sound

CocoRosie's eclectic music style draws from a vast array of influences. Artists such as Joanna Newsom, Devendra Banhart, and the enchanting compositions of classical musicians have left an indelible mark on their sonic palette. Their music carries echoes of hip-hop beats, operatic vocals, and heartfelt folk melodies, resulting in a sound that's both unique and hauntingly beautiful.

Throughout their formative years, the sisters admired the artistic value of vinyl records, which offered a rich auditory experience. They collected diverse albums, using these influences to sculpt their artistic identities. The melodies and narratives captured in the grooves of these records inspired their songwriting, enabling them to transform their childhood reflections and emotions into music that resonates deeply with their audiences.

How CocoRosie Entered the Music Industry

In 2003, after a ten-year separation, Sierra and Bianca reconnected in Paris, where they began crafting their original songs together. Their first foray into music was an organic and playful exploration, created in the bathroom of Sierra's apartment, which provided the perfect acoustics. These sessions produced what would become their debut album La Maison de Mon Rêve, released in 2004 by Touch & Go Records. Initially, they envisioned pressing a few copies solely for friends, unaware of the upcoming wave of acclaim.

Their persistence paid off when the album received critical acclaim, allowing them to establish themselves as a formidable force in the music industry. As they recorded their subsequent albums, they faced challenges in capturing their eclectic sound on vinyl. These struggles only fueled their creativity, resulting in the evolution of their unique signature sound--characterized by a blend of intensive experimentation and collaboration with like-minded artists, paving the way for their rising success.

CocoRosie's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

CocoRosie's breakthrough came with the release of their second album, Noah's Ark, in 2005. The album's vinyl release showcased the playful yet somber themes that fans have come to expect from the sisters, garnering them widespread acclaim. Their distinct approach appealed to a growing audience, enabling them to touch the hearts of many. Tracks like "Beautiful Boyz" featuring Anohni epitomized their rich sound, propelling them onto the charts and establishing their presence in the indie music sphere.

As audience enthusiasm grew, CocoRosie gained exposure on larger stages, performing at prestigious festivals and venues and securing nominations for various awards. Their dedication and talent were evidenced through industry recognition, including being named one of the most influential artists of the 2000s by music magazine Better Propaganda. This acclaim further solidified their place in the music landscape, enhancing their visibility among collectors in the vinyl community.

How Personal Life Shaped CocoRosie's Music

The music of CocoRosie reflects their tumultuous personal lives--a blend of heartache, familial struggles, and transformative experiences. The deaths of family members and the Casady sisters' childhood memories significantly influence their writing, drawing upon deep emotional wellsprings to create lyrics that resonate on multiple levels. Themes of love, loss, and identity frequently surface in their songs, allowing listeners to connect with their narratives.

In 2017, they faced personal tragedy with the death of their mother during the production of Put The Shine On. This album embodies a reflection of their grief and reminds us how deeply personal experiences shape their artistry. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts, they have used their music as a vehicle to advocate for social issues, further solidifying their public image as not just musicians but as agents of change in the world.