Album Info
| Artist: | The Cure |
| Album: | Japanese Whispers |
| Released: | Australia, 1983 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Let's Go To Bed | 3:32 |
| Producer - Chris Parry | ||
| A2 | The Dream | 3:12 |
| Producer - Steve Nye | ||
| A3 | Just One Kiss | 4:09 |
| Producer - Chris Parry | ||
| A4 | The Upstairs Room | 3:28 |
| Producer - Steve Nye | ||
| B1 | The Walk | 3:27 |
| Producer - Steve Nye | ||
| B2 | Speak My Language | 2:39 |
| Producer - Chris Parry, Phil Thornalley, Robert Smith | ||
| B3 | Lament | 4:20 |
| Producer - Steve Nye | ||
| B4 | The Lovecats | 3:40 |
| Producer - Chris Parry, Phil Thornalley, Robert Smith |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Japanese Whispers" by The Cure, released in 1983, is a curious entry in the band's discography. Straddling the line between an album and a compilation, it captures a transformative period for the band, showcasing their transition from the melancholic post-punk sound to a more synth-heavy, pop-influenced direction.
The album kicks off with "Let's Go to Bed," a track that marks a clear departure from The Cure's earlier work. The synthesizers and playful lyrics give it an almost whimsical feel, a stark contrast to the deeper, more introspective songs from their previous albums. It's catchy, danceable, and a clear indication of the band's evolving sound.
"Love Cats," arguably one of the most recognizable tracks on "Japanese Whispers," exemplifies The Cure's foray into the pop realm. With its upbeat bassline, jazzy brass sections, and Robert Smith's distinct vocals, it's a song that embodies the spirit of the '80s while retaining The Cure's unique essence.
However, the album isn't all pop and synthesizers. "Speak My Language" harks back to the band's earlier sound, with its gloomy atmosphere and haunting lyrics. It's a reminder of The Cure's roots, showcasing their ability to traverse genres while maintaining their identity.
The lyrical content of "Japanese Whispers" is a mix of whimsy, romance, and introspection. Smith's songwriting is as potent as ever, weaving tales of love, longing, and the human experience. Tracks like "Just One Kiss" and "The Dream" delve into the complexities of relationships, capturing the nuances of emotion with poetic precision.
What's particularly noteworthy about "Japanese Whispers" is its cohesiveness. Despite being a collection of singles and B-sides, the album feels unified, as if each track is a chapter in a larger narrative. The sequencing is impeccable, with each song flowing seamlessly into the next.
The production, helmed by Smith and Chris Parry, is polished yet retains a raw edge. The synthesizers, which are a prominent feature of the album, are layered beautifully, never overwhelming the other instruments or Smith's vocals.
If there's any critique to be made, it's perhaps that "Japanese Whispers," given its compilation nature, might lack the thematic depth of some of The Cure's other albums. However, this doesn't detract from its quality. Each track stands strong on its own, and together they paint a vivid picture of a band in metamorphosis.
In conclusion, "Japanese Whispers" is a pivotal album in The Cure's discography. It captures a moment of evolution, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment. For both long-time fans and newcomers, it offers a glimpse into the band's journey, highlighting their adaptability and enduring appeal.