Album Info
| Artist: | The Cure |
| Album: | The Top |
| Released: | Europe, 2 Sept 2016 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Shake Dog Shake | |
| A2 | Bird Mad Girl | |
| A3 | Wailing Wall | |
| A4 | Give Me It | |
| A5 | Dressing Up | |
| B1 | The Caterpillar | |
| B2 | Piggy In The Mirror | |
| B3 | The Empty World | |
| B4 | Bananafishbones | |
| B5 | The Top |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 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.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- 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
"The Top", released in 1984, is a fascinating entry in The Cure's discography. It stands as a transitional album, bridging the gap between the band's earlier, darker post-punk sound and the more expansive, pop-infused direction they would explore in later years. This record is often seen as a Robert Smith-dominated project, as he took on much of the instrumental and songwriting duties, making it a deeply personal and experimental work.
The album opens with "Shake Dog Shake", a raw and driving track that sets a visceral tone. Its gritty guitar riffs and Smith's impassioned vocals immediately grab the listener's attention. From there, the album takes a journey through a variety of moods and textures. Tracks like "Birdmad Girl" and "The Caterpillar" showcase a playful, almost whimsical side of the band, with the latter becoming one of the album's standout singles. "The Caterpillar" is particularly memorable for its intricate arrangement and Smith's distinctive vocal delivery, which conveys a sense of both fragility and exuberance.
One of the most striking aspects of "The Top" is its eclecticism. The album doesn't adhere to a single style or mood, instead weaving through a tapestry of sounds that reflect Smith's wide-ranging influences and creative ambitions at the time. "Wailing Wall" and "Piggy in the Mirror" delve into more atmospheric and introspective territory, while "Give Me It" bursts forth with frenetic energy and a punk-like intensity. This diversity can make "The Top" feel somewhat disjointed, but it also adds to its charm and intrigue.
The production on "The Top" is lush and layered, with a focus on creating immersive soundscapes. This is particularly evident on tracks like "Dressing Up" and the title track, "The Top", which close the album on a dreamy, almost surreal note. The use of exotic instrumentation and unconventional arrangements gives the album a unique character, setting it apart from The Cure's other works.
Critically, "The Top" received mixed reviews upon its release, with some praising its adventurous spirit and others finding it uneven. However, it has since gained a more appreciative audience, with many fans and critics recognising it as an important step in The Cure's evolution. It may not have the immediate accessibility of albums like "Disintegration" or "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me", but it rewards repeated listens with its depth and complexity.
In retrospect, "The Top" can be seen as a bold and experimental chapter in The Cure's career. It captures a moment of creative exploration and transition, offering a glimpse into the mind of Robert Smith as he pushed the boundaries of his artistry. For fans of the band, it remains a fascinating and essential piece of their musical journey.
