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The Cure - The Top Vinyl Record Album Art
Picture of The Top Vinyl Record
Condition:
New
Availability:
Available At Supplier. Ships in 2 - 4 weeks
Current Stock:
Genre(s):
Electronic, Rock, Alternative Rock, New Wave, Psychedelic Rock
Format:
Vinyl Record LP
$65.00

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The Cure - The Top Vinyl Record Album Art
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Ex. GST

Album Info

Artist: The Cure
Album: The Top
Released: Europe, 2 Sept 2016

Tracklist:

A1Shake Dog Shake
A2Bird Mad Girl
A3Wailing Wall
A4Give Me It
A5Dressing Up
B1The Caterpillar
B2Piggy In The Mirror
B3The Empty World
B4Bananafishbones
B5The Top


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  • 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.

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