The Raincoats

The Profile

The Raincoats are an English post-punk band formed by Gina Birch and Ana da Silva with Vicky Aspinall among early members. Signed to Rough Trade, they released the albums The Raincoats (1979) and Odyshape (1981), noted for their raw, experimental sound.

Early lineup included Gina Birch, Ana da Silva and Vicky Aspinall; Palmolive participated briefly. They were signed by Geoff Travis to Rough Trade. Odyshape (1981) incorporates exotic and jazz-influenced elements and the band has been cited as an influence by artists such as Kurt Cobain and Sonic Youth. Collaborations on Odyshape include Robert Wyatt and members of This Heat and P.I.L.

Two DeBaser reviews praise The Raincoats' raw, experimental post-punk and the exotic, jazz-tinged textures of Odyshape. Critics highlight the band's pioneering all-female lineup, Rough Trade connection, and influence on later artists. Both albums remain notable for their unconventionally arranged sounds.