This limited edition two-track single, containing a pair of Christmas-themed covers, had a slightly curious origin. The first track, "Frosty the Snowman," was recorded a full year earlier for an issue of a British CD magazine, Volume, as both an acknowledgement that the band was still around and to celebrate the issue's end of year release. Guthrie didn't want a religiously-themed song to reinterpret, that not being his bag in general, thus the choice of a more secular tune. When Snow surfaced in its own right, the group added another non-religious themed standard, "Winter Wonderland," to round things out. Both versions are perfectly enjoyable takes; the Cocteaus lean more towards their sweetly blissful than their powerfully dramatic side for the takes, a choice which suits the bouncy feeling of both songs perfectly. "Frosty" gets the slightly slower take, Fraser's voice happily playing around with the fun lyrics as Guthrie and Raymonde create a fine overall arrangement Cocteaus style. "Winter Wonderland" gets a perkier pace but still has a relaxed, contented glow, Fraser using her higher register to flesh things out. Both tracks have turned up on more widely available Christmas-themed various artist compilations since.

UK four CD set. The Cocteau Twins' latter-period work - spanning the years 1993 to 1996 - are compiled this fall on this 53-track box set that includes the dreampop icons' final two albums plus two discs' worth of B-sides, EP tracks, live radio sessions and rarities. The set's first two discs include the studio albums Four-Calendar Café (1993) and Milk & Kisses (1996), while the latter two discs round up songs appearing on the six EPs and singles released during that span, along with radio sessions and a couple rarities. The collection comes in a sturdy box with a booklet that includes photos, sleeves notes by Chris Roberts and a discography. The collection pulls together the music the Cocteaus - guitarist Guthrie, singer Elizabeth Fraser and bassist Simon Raymonde - recorded for Fontana Records after leaving the 4AD label.