In a recent interview, we had the opportunity to delve into the longstanding career of the Cure, focusing on their first album in 16 years. Lead singer Robert Smith and the band are known for their signature melancholic sound, punctuated by an unexpected pop hit.
It’s interesting to note how the Cure has managed to maintain a unique artistic space over the decades, seemingly defying the passage of time. Smith, famously avoiding modern technology by forgoing a smartphone, reportedly sustains this longevity with a lifestyle rich in red wine. Following the celebration of their 40th anniversary in 2018, Smith announced that a new album was on the horizon for 2019. However, true to the Cure’s style, the new music, titled *Songs of a Lost World*, has finally emerged after a five-year wait, alongside numerous fan-favorite concerts.
This latest offering features just eight tracks and runs for a brisk 49 minutes. It provides a powerful exploration of themes such as grief, loss, and the inexorable flow of time. The album opens with a six-minute introduction to “Alone,” which embodies the spirit of reflection that runs throughout the project. The evocative cover art, a sculptural piece called Bagatelle by Janez Pirnat, replaces the band’s typical artwork with an image of something raw and rugged, reminiscent of damaged classical art.
The Cure has long transcended the gothic label often attached to their music, intertwining different genres from post-punk to psychedelic rock, but existential melancholy remains their hallmark. *Songs of a Lost World* is the first installment of a planned trilogy, with Smith promising one album steeped in darkness, another more uplifting, and a solo work that will explore noise.
A significant aspect of this record is Smith’s introspection on identity and selfhood. The album begins with “Alone,” which reflects on endings, and closes with “Endsong,” a poignant meditation on loss and loneliness. The themes resonate heavily with Smith’s personal experiences, especially losses among family and friends leading up to the pandemic, while also alluding to broader societal issues, like the climate crisis.
The standout track, however, is an unexpected pop anthem titled “Drone: Nodrone.” This lively and tongue-in-cheek song addresses Smith’s self-doubt, spurred by the presence of a drone overhead. Despite its lighter tone, it remains aligned with the album’s overarching themes.
Overall, *Songs of a Lost World* not only showcases the resilience of Smith and the Cure but also leaves listeners eager for the two upcoming albums in their trilogy. With a mix of heart-wrenching melodies and unexpected energy, fans are undoubtedly ready to embrace whatever comes next.
