The Cure is set to release their long-awaited 14th studio album, Songs of a Lost World, on November 1st, marking their first full-length release in 16 years. This highly anticipated record was teased throughout the band’s expansive 90-date ‘Shows of a Lost World’ tour, which spanned 33 countries and captivated over 1.3 million fans. Early glimpses of the album’s material were met with overwhelming praise from both fans and critics, generating excitement for what is sure to be a landmark moment in their storied career.
The lead track, “Alone,” set the tone for each night of the tour, opening every show and offering a haunting glimpse into the emotional depth of Songs of a Lost World. Now available to stream, “Alone” captures The Cure’s signature melancholy, and frontman Robert Smith revealed it to be the key that unlocked the entire album. Reflecting on the song, Smith shared that he had long been searching for the right opening line until a flash of inspiration hit after recalling a line from the poem Dregs by Ernest Dowson. This realization helped solidify not just the song but the album’s entire concept.
Songs of a Lost World promises to be a defining chapter in The Cure’s legacy. Written and arranged by Robert Smith, the album was produced and mixed by Smith alongside longtime collaborator Paul Corkett. The lineup remains familiar, with Smith on vocals, guitar, and keyboards, Simon Gallup on bass, Jason Cooper on drums, Roger O’Donnell on keyboard, and Reeves Gabrels on guitar, ensuring that the band’s iconic sound is preserved while continuing to evolve.
The album’s visual identity, crafted by Smith and Cure collaborator Andy Vella, features the striking sculpture ‘Bagatelle’ by Janez Pirnat. Fans can look forward to the album in a variety of formats, including 1LP, a 2LP Abbey Road half-speed master, marble-colored vinyl, double cassette, CD, and a deluxe Blu-ray edition with an instrumental version and Dolby Atmos mix.
With a career that spans over four decades, The Cure remains as influential as ever. From headlining Glastonbury four times to their 2019 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, their music continues to resonate across generations. Songs of a Lost World is poised to further cement their legacy as one of the UK’s most enduring and impactful bands.