Simply EPIC! The CURE - Songs Of A Lost World - Bernie Grundman & Miles Showell LP cuts compared.

[@chrisberry8218]

Hi Dave, just got the cure album on Deluxe CD for Christmas. I've listened to the blu-ray version. Very impressed.

[@DaveDenyer]

Hi Chris, thanks for the feedback. I'm still waiting to get around to a friend who has a BluRay / Atmos system.

[@thekittencult]

Excellent review! It's not an audiophile mix; it's dense, dirty, and ugly at times, but that works for the context of the album. Lyrically, it's also dense, dirty, and ugly at times. An absolute masterpiece. It's one of those albums you can listen to and think, "Why am I in tears right now, the lyrics have not even come in yet"

[@DaveDenyer]

Totally agree, well said!

[@JD247-p1x]

Great assessment. Yes, indeed.

[@windyhillbomber]

@@thekittencult great observation

[@boatingguy6469]

Fascinating how Robert Smith layers the instruments in this record. Agree there is compression and distortion but it is planned to give the album its unique toxic atmosphere. Masterpiece!

[@DaveDenyer]

I agree.

[@Jason-andTheArgonauts]

The album cover is an image of a Pirnat sculpture from 1975. Robert, in a recent interview, talks about making a phone call to the artist only to find he had just recently passed. The artist's widow gave the sculpture to Smith. A 'distant relic from a forgotten time.' -Andy Vella-album cover artist

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the information about this. It's a beautiful sculpture.

[@nebod1556]

Slovenian artist Janez Pirnat Nejamsic (!932 - 2021). The Ljubljana-born (capital of Slovenia) sculptor spent the last ten years of his life on the Croatian island of Brač with his sculptor wife Sandra Nejašmić Pirnat. He added her surname to his when he married her. Pirnat Nejašmić left behind an extensive oeuvre of sculptures, both public and small ones. His sculptures, which appear as if unfinished, can be found in many parts of Slovenia and Croatia. He also made drawings and prints. Since his death, an event called Days of Janez Pirnat Nejašmić has been held there in tribute to the sculptor. Smith has been the event's sponsor for the past two years. RIP.

[@jacquesolivierholzer]

And in a recent interview, Robert added that he first learned about Pirnat was when he finally opened a book about him, that he received from a friend, and the the exact day he dived into that book was, without knowing of course, the day the artist passed away.

[@arzabael]

Thank you

[@vagrantpistol]

Have to agree with you that this album is great. Masterpiece on so many levels. It’s The Cure at their new best. From beginning to end, it’s an absolute joy to listen to. Been a fan for decades so it was great to finally get new music from them. Now, if I can catch them live in the US…. Also, there is a double LP Abbey Road version by MILES SHOWELL. Curious about that one myself. I have the white one by MILES SHOWELL. May have to pick up the Bernie version too. Thanks for the reviews.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback @vagrantpistol

[@adamdover-bq5hd]

The 2LP is the best one IMO. Worth picking up if you like the album.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@adamdover-bq5hd thanks for the heads-up about the 2LP. I'm still waiting for my copy to arrive.

[@sammygoulbourne439]

I’ve never been that enamoured with Showell’s mastering sound. The resultant sound has never really jumped out at me and/or hugged me. Each engineer will have their sound that they add to a final recording and Bernie Grundman, to me, always knew how to get the most out of a recording, so I’m not totally surprised by this review. Thank you for taking the time out, and good luck with the future purchases.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Sammy.

[@Dec-gn7gt]

This record is indeed truly epic, it’s up there with the best of their stuff. Thank you for the wonderful review.

[@DaveDenyer]

My pleasure! Thanks for the feedback.

[@michaellupton1593]

I’m not an audiophile. I’m a musician . I threw away my hi-fi years ago and have my records stacked in boxes I listened to this album on Spotify on decent headphones it sounds epic and focused . It is not heavily compressed . It is layered with each instruments frequencies overlapping a little. There is a lot of use of distortion which sound like boss pedals to me. The bass has a great crunchy tone and keeps the band churning along. Even the drums sound musical . Some nice atmospheric keyboard pads fill out the soundscape. The band are in the pocket in a kind of slow stately drone with a bit of groove .However , I would listen to this on a mono speaker, the songs are the strongest element . Robert is in fine voice and the album has a flow and focus . I think you have to be in the mood to listen to it as the subject matter is a bit grim, even though Robert transcends his gloomy premise with such elegiac music . In my humble opinion it’s a masterpiece.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for your feedback Michael!

[@QWRTkeyboard]

I agree. When I listen with my JBL headphone I use when I am outside, It is good but kind of compressed. But everytime I listen with my Sennheiser studio headphone, I appreciate the mix more. If you have a good headphone the mixing is clear and every instruments is seperatable.

[@barclayv8282]

Excellent and in depth--thank you. I own the Showell cut but just ordered the Grundman because I think I might prefer it, based on your very thorough impressions. But, yes. F'n awesome album.

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad you found the video useful, thanks for the feedback.

[@Brakhage9]

Great analysis! Thank you!!!

[@Violette-k1w]

SHOCKING OF BEAUTY !!!! I'M SHOCKED !! Songs of a lost world is absolutely BEAUTIFUL ! The CURE KING 👑 OF ROCK ! BEST BAND IN THE WORLD !

[@DaveDenyer]

Absolutely! 😎

[@Violette-k1w]

​@@DaveDenyer❤❣️The CURE 👈😍🥰♥️❣️

[@Universityofvinyl]

Hi Dave, really interesting and loved your take. I did a video on the Bernie cut earlier this week. It’s funny, here in the States, the Bernie cut is on black and the Miles is on the marbled vinyl. I had the exact same reactions - Overdriven, Dense, “Wall of Sound” etc. But…it seems…believe it or not, it does open up a bit with more volume. I agree, landmarks album and Robert’s vocals have “survived” so so well after all of these years. Really love the album…just wish there was a bit more dynamic range but the mix is the mix is the mix. Not sure about springing for the Miles Half Speed Double LP….will wait to hear about reactions. Cheers, Tim

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Tim. I'd be interested to hear the US BG cut. I totally agree about turning up the volume. You don't get those bass drivers moving at lower levels. It needs to be at a volume that envelops and draws you into the music.

[@CUBICUB]

Thanks, great in depth comparison. Just bought the BG version.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. Hope you enjoy your new LP!

[@nebod1556]

I like return of the cassettes ...something I cannot explain but I guess it is for fans who want to have a particular album on all media available ...and there is something cute about the cassettes ...Love listening to you and your vocabulary explaining the sound and its effects ...

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. Glad you’re enjoying my videos!

[@apollomemories7399]

Back in the day, The Cure were one of the very few bands of whom I also bought versions of their albums on cassettes for these contained excellent extras not available on other formats. With 'Faith' it included the 'Carnage Visors' soundtrack. 'Concert' included the excellent live material compilation 'Curiosity (Killing The Cat): Cure Anomalies 1977-1984'. 'Standing On A Beach' included 'Unavailable B-Sides''. Such good value.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@apollomemories7399cool!

[@HarryPrenger]

The double lp version mastered by Miles actually sounds fantastic.

[@DaveDenyer]

Can’t wait to hear it! Thanks for the feedback Harry!

[@THENINERULZ]

This is the pressing I've purchased, right away the 2 lp got the big thumbs up from first day.

[@hansthijs]

So true. Thanks for the comparison too

[@DaveDenyer]

My pleasure!

[@Mountprospect1]

Ive no doubt with an artist such as Robert Smith that the sonic aesthetic of this mix is very much as its meant to be. He / they have had forever to consider this and I wouldnt imagine finances had any impact on its result. Its a dark, heavy, dense album... full stop. The subject matter of the lyrics, the long, drawn out arrangements, the tempos. The mix and mastering makes absolute sense to my mind. Its all part of the experience he's created. A nice clean, separated mix would result in something entirely different... and not really in keeping with the big picture.... in my humble

[@DaveDenyer]

I’m very inclined to agree that this would probably sound awful as a happy, light, bright mix. However it is extremely unusual to use two / three different mastering engineers (maybe more if you include the various digital formats).

[@Mountprospect1]

@@DaveDenyer definitely. It'd be great to hear why from Robert. Time constraints from Abbey Road maybe? Or I wonder if it's a different ball game mastering onto bio vinyl?

[@pablogallegosnava5015]

Look forward for part 2, thanks for the review!

[@DaveDenyer]

Part 2 will be coming soon.

[@JD247-p1x]

It’s mixed dense and compressed similar to a modern metal album. It’s to get volume from certain instruments while highlighting other elements. It still manages to sound huge and open.

[@DaveDenyer]

I’m not really a metal fan (never have been), but I find this album absolutely compelling. Maybe I’ve finally matured into my ‘metal phase’.

[@JD247-p1x]

@@DaveDenyer my point is that it is NOT metal, but similar modern metal mixing techniques were inadvertently applied. Current shoe gaze bands are doing the same, so that may have influenced the sound. Anyhow.. Great album.

[@machiventa858]

Great video and info. Looking forward to part 2!

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks! Can’t wait for the other versions to arrive!

[@1998mchp]

Dynamic range score of DR05. Only 5db of range in digital. Disintegration in 1989 had a DR 12. Loudness Wars horror show.

[@DaveDenyer]

Yikes! 😮

[@eccentricworx]

That's why I got the half speed mastered version. DR12/PLR15.

[@Krell666]

I think the vinyl version is DR12?

[@eccentricworx]

@@Krell666 I just realized that there are 2 Miles Showell versions avalable. I meant the double vinyl. I usually only buy vinyl and digitize for mobile use, just measured it with Maat offline DR. It is indeed DR12. I mean, you have to count for stylus dynamics etc. But the overall sound is even better than the digital HD Version imo.

[@Krell666]

@@eccentricworx That makes sense, a lot of badly mastered/highly compressed releases sound better on vinyl, Peter Gabriels i/o is another example.

[@robertb5640]

Gave this a listen since you gave it such high remarks and I absolutely loved it! A fragile thing is my favorite track, it sounds like it came right out of the 80's! Fantastic record I picked up the grundman cut as well! Great job looking forward to what you think about the 2lp version and the blue ray version. Not sure why they went with blue ray I would have gone with sacd instead.

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad my video prompted you to buy the album Rob. I suspect they’ve been swamped by demand because my 2LP, CDs etc have still not shipped…

[@herbstencil]

This is a great album from the cure. I agree with your assessment. "End Song," sums up the cure story. Who knows if there is another album in the band. Hollywood Bowl performance this year was outstanding. "Songs..." is an album I listen to all the way through to the end. The sound has a feeling somewhat like David Lynch's "Eraserhead." I'm not sure it will bring any new fans into the cure fold. I love this record. "Oh I really love it here."

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Herb. However I’m not so sure about it ‘not bringing any more fans’: I was a fan of their 70s /80s pop stuff but had completely lost interest since then, and my wife was 100% “not a fan”… however we just can’t stop playing it.

[@SpyderTracks]

Ordered the Bernie Grundman, I’m not a huge cure fan, certainly not in the day but have collected my favorite albums of theirs in recent years as I do appreciate their older works. This sound really intriguing though this album and I don’t want to miss it. Appreciate the review as always

[@DaveDenyer]

Hope you enjoy it. One word of advice: play it LOUD

[@bosworth5150]

Fantastic album and nice review! Cant wait for the half speed double lp review as i want to buy a vinyl copy need to know how good (or bad!) that version sounds. I have the Qobuz 96/24 purchased hirez copy and havent stopped listening to it! But also want a physical copy.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. I'll do a follow up video as soon as my Cure shop order arrives.

[@lokitio]

Really interesting, thanks Dave.

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the feedback.

[@apollomemories7399]

Very strong sense of déjà vu here. The very same was said about the intended production qualities by many when Pornography was released 42 years ago. They said it all again with the second half (the heavier half) of Disintegration. This new album you hear regardless of which particular finicky mastering by a n others, is exactly as intended. In fact, Roger O'Donnell said in interview back in July 2020, that the record "has to be the most intense, saddest, most dramatic and most emotional record we've ever made" and that's exactly what The Cure have delivered. I wish people, some of whom are obviously (or appear to be) only familiar with the likes of "Friday I'm In Love" and "The Lovecats" would stop expecting to hear an album with the production qualities of something akin to INXS - sorry Dave, I know you love them, but you'll get my drift. For these people will get their chance on the next record as according to Smith in June 2021, he stated that the band had recorded enough songs for two albums. “One of them’s very, very doom and gloom and the other one isn’t.”

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for this feedback. I do admit to wishing the mix was clearer, I can only imagine how it could sound better, but I do fully appreciate it is part of the creative effect. FWIW I think Grundman gets this and maintains the depth (in soundtsgake and in the bass extension) and expression better than Showell who's done the majority of the release versions... Anyway, I have to say I am enjoying this more than any of their previous albums, which I like. This one I love.

[@barclayv8282]

"...Pornography was released 42 years ago." Holy fuck. Time has flown.

[@markjohnson441]

Great review, Dave! Thank you.

[@DaveDenyer]

You're welcome. Thanks for the feedback Mark.

[@myles7522]

Thank you for this review I’ve found it very useful….i have streamed this many times but still unsure on buying the album….looking forward to what your view is going to be on the rest of this albums releases….👍

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Myles. Can't wait for my delivery from the Cure on line store (not sure it's even been posted yet).

[@markwood4427]

Like you I have listened to this album many times and it is your fault I have the Grundman cut as well as the Showell! I too prefer the Grundman but would really like to hear your review of the 2lp and digital versions so please can you do that soon. Keep up the great reviews, much appreciated.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Mark. As it happens the 2LP cut (& deluxe CD, & cassette) have just arrived. Review video coming soon!

[@Gothic55]

Great review - this album was worth the wait - look forward to hearing Kate Bush’s new long awaited album. I loved the Dolby Atoms Blu-ray. Thank you.

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad you enjoyed it. I’m very interested to hear the Atmos mix.

[@ordreancien]

When do you release the next video about this fantastic record ? 😊

[@DaveDenyer]

The double LP, CD / Bruray and cassettes have just arrived, so if not this weekend it’ll be the following one.

[@hotel2tango]

I have black vinyl. I think it sounds great except the vinyl mass is not good enough. I washed my vinyl before listening in a professional ultrasonic cleaner, but even that did not get rid of the static clicks.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@TractorCountdown]

Artistically, it's everything you say, Dave, and that includes how it sounds, more like good old tape saturation to my ears, visually represented by the sculpture on the cover: the rock being the instrumentation, the carved face, Rob's vocal.

[@DaveDenyer]

Nicely put. Thanks for adding to the adulation!

[@TractorCountdown]

@@DaveDenyer One thing reviewers seem to miss are the lines quoted from Keat's poem “When I have fears that I may cease to be“ which, as Rob says, set you up for what the albums about.

[@DarrellGregory]

Interesting video, thanks. Over here in the USA the grey marble is the Miles Showell. I bought the last copy in the shop last week. Locally the album is sold out in every format. Based on this video I will try and find the Bernie Grundman version.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Darrell. Hope you can get a BG cut. (to be honest, having got this far into it, I'm tempted to get a US BG cut on black vinyl). Just in case that's the very best version...

[@syr1964]

If you're able, try to get your hands on the atmox mix, downmixed to stero. To me, it's a huge improvement in terms of dynamics and separation. The regular mix is sooooo compressed.

[@DaveDenyer]

I have ordered the Deluxe CD (and the double LP, and the two cassettes) so will certainly try the Dolby Atmos mix.

[@rocker11281]

I have made my own downmix of the Atmos, but added a little compression (just a little) as it takes away all the omph of the original Album in stereo. I think, this album really lives by its dense wall of sound. If you listen to the Atmos on Atmos, you will get that. If you listen to it in stereo without enhancment it sounds a little lush. One of the few cases I prefer the less dynamic master. For artistical reasons.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@rocker11281 I haven't heard the Atmos version yet, but do suspect (fear) that it'll lose the feeling of the 'original'. I do feel this album needs to be listened to loud, and wouldn't trade the atmosphere for clarity if it was a choice of one or the other...

[@markstewart1807]

Great review Dave, you've definitely encouraged me to go out and buy it, however I'll make do with the CD as it seem this wasn't meant to be anywhere near an audiophile release as you say, it sounds very much like the compression etc was very much a an artistic decision, so no point in trying to make it into something it's not and will never be, looking forward to hearing just for the musical content. Thanks for your great work and substantial investments in all the formats etc😊

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad you found the review useful Mark. I hope you enjoy the CD. Cheers!

[@staggerlee6794]

Thanks for this great review. I have the marbled grey Grundman/Lucey version. I wholeheartedly agree with you about the quality of the writing and musicianship. The production, however, I am not so sure about. I have only played the album the once, so this "dirty" oppressive sound it has may grow on me after more plays. Looking forward to your review of the 2xLP version as I think that the album might benefit from having more space to breathe.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. I’m sure the overall sound is intended, but let’s see what the 2LP version does with it…

[@FleagleSangria]

It would be interesting to get Robert Smith’s input on what his thinking is concerning the mix and such an overloaded sound he and the band chose. He would probably simply say “What?” heh. Artistic choices and all but a more open mix with a bit more dynamic range would not change the artistry imo, I think it would have enhanced it. I am probably sticking with the cd/blu ray that I have on order. I am a vinyl guy first, but when an album has no real advantages on vinyl and hirez is also offered I just do not see the point in purchasing the lp format in this case. However, I am open to other opinions and am looking forward to your assessment of the blu ray vs the vinyl versions. Your efforts are much appreciated! And I totally agree, this album is a very very good “comeback” album for The Cure. People should, imo, adjust their expectations on what they are expecting the subject matter to be. This album to me is a bit akin to Dylan’s “Time Out Of Mind” in that it explores mortality and later life examinations. Like TOOM the albums lyrics are deceptively simplistic but say much more than is heard on first listn and glance. Not an album to feel I am in love on Friday but an album written by a 65 yr old man who has lived life and is giving insight with just as many questions asked as answered. A “the more I know, the more I realize the less I know” kind of experience. One other odd note of why some might have difficulty in warming up to this album: Robert Smith’s voice seems as if it has been captured in time. One of those rare singers in which his voice simply has aged very little. Unlike Bob Dylan where his voice fit TOOM in its craginess and Draino gargled vocals, we are almost getting a 30 yr old sounding Smith singing about end of life subject matter. It is not offputing to me, but I might see how that could come into play subconsciously for some. That is why I also find the Troxy live performance so pleasing to listen to and watch. Not only does the performance sound better sonically but visually you see the man at his age and respectfully the weathered look of The Cure 2024. If you have not watched the Troxy performance of the entire album (the first hour) I highly recommend you and your wife watch the video on youtube of this. Amazing and enhanced my appreciation for this album even more so. If you have not seen it… Search: THE CURE :: SONGS OF A LOST WORLD :: FULL LIVE STREAM on The Cure official site Until part 2! Thanks so much again!

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks so much for your thoughts here. I will watch the full performance, I have seen just a snippet so far. Maybe as a 60 year old with significant health conditions this album hits a few more chords with me than it may do with some.

[@FleagleSangria]

@@DaveDenyer Dave, I am also no spring chicken, I think you are correct. Not easy topics for song, but I take solace and insight in these type albums. I think that is the dividing line perhaps. Im not sure I would have the same reaction if I were a younger man. By the way, the 2lp Miles 1/2 Speed is just the album, not instrumentals. So the proper album spread over 2 lps. Cheers

[@BinaryFeedback]

Digital versions can be found mastered by Brian Lucey, and another by Matt Colton. So four different mastering engineers involved in the different versions. Quite unusual for a day 0 release.

[@DaveDenyer]

Extremely unusual. I'll have to try and find / listen to all versions. The music itself is so majestic, I feel it warrants the effort.

[@LifelongMusicJunkie]

On The Cure website, the Marble Vinyl retail exclusive and HMV version says it is mastered by Miles Showell ..... I am so confused by all the versions. In Canada, the release was delayed a week and all sites I order from are sold out!

[@DaveDenyer]

Maybe unsurprisingly, I can’t find the Bernie Grundman retail exclusive on the Cure’s UK shop. My local record shop said they’d sold out but have more on order.

[@TL3721]

Can wait for the other comparisons (cassettes as well, yes!). Thank you for doing these reviews 🙏

[@VMGvinyl]

I went to my local shop and they were sold out. Still looking.

[@DaveDenyer]

Good luck with the hunt!

[@medecindamour9688]

Anyone got any thoughts on the double half-speed master version? Will you do a review on that one Dave?

[@DaveDenyer]

Hi, yes I certainly will do a review, when my double 'half speed mastered' LP arrives. Whenever that is...

[@lukejohnston5993]

I’m relatively young (mid 30s) but been a fan for half my life and been into audiophile records for half a decade. Have the grey, white (Miles), and Miles 2LP all in the post but don’t have a copy to spin yet. Thanks for your initial thoughts 🖤

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Luke.

[@lukejohnston5993]

@ No worries, looking forward to your 2LP review and my own listening.

[@markwilding5329]

Talking about the Bass, Showell uses half speed mastering. Because bass roll off is intrinsic to mastering, when you master at half speed and then play back at full speed, the natural roll-off that is normally at about 30 Hz, becomes 60Hz on playback. You can have higher Bass Levels on a half speed Master, but only down to 60Hz, you lose a lot of the bottom octave. In other words, it's possible to have louder bass on a half speed master, but it won't go as deep.

[@DaveDenyer]

I'm not sure I understand the science of why this should happen... but what you describe does fit exactly with what I hear. The BG cut goes deeper whereas the MS cut goes so far down (could well be around 60Hz) then seems to just get louder, not lower. Same effect I heard that ruins the Sade, and Duran Duran I recently talked about... I'd like to read the science behind what you say here Mark. Very, very interesting, thanks for the feedback.

[@markwilding5329]

@@DaveDenyer Well, thanks to you I learned there was a Grundman cut lacquer. It wouldn't have occurred to me to look... but as it turns out there were 5 distinct versions released, which is unusual... 3 Showell half speed masters, all pressed at Pallas, 2 Grundman, one pressed in Mexico and the other Pallas, which is the clear winner on paper at least. I ordered a copy.

[@ChrisMag100]

I ordered the double 12” from the Cure store. It’s a Miles Showell cut. Got it, ran it through the Degritter. Gave side A a spin and made a 24/96 copy to stream in Roon and compare to the Qobuz stream. Recording level aside, I think the vinyl mix is less blown out in the bass. There’s more subtlety. Production… the drums on track 1 sound like they’re being run through a compressor. Guitars are kinda crispy. Vocals are pretty clean. Overall, it gives a suitable wall of sound effect. My honest opinion is that the Qobuz 24/96 recording is better in most ways. It’s cleaner sounding. Vinyl maybe sounds a little more organic in terms of keyboard/piano, but…

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the comments Chris. can't wait to get my double LP (and the rest) from the Cure store...

[@windyhillbomber]

Not a huge Cure fan (been listening to them since 1980) but I love, love, love this album.

[@DaveDenyer]

That’s about how I feel about it…

[@Krell666]

I wonder if the marbled vinyl has more surface noise and therefore gives more of that 'enhanced' grit and distortion.

[@DaveDenyer]

Very unsure as to whether the marbled vinyl is noisier. The ‘grit’ is in the recording. I think the issue is that the Showell mastering ‘softens’ the grit just a touch: it kind of sounds cleaner, only slightly, but at the expense of the drama.

[@Krell666]

@@DaveDenyer That makes sense, I've been on the fence as to which version to get so thanks for the insights.

[@ronaldvandenkieboom4683]

Thx, for the vid, you missed buying the white vinyl and the 2 picture discs 🙂

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. I’m only really interested in finding the best sounding version. Never heard a good sounding picture disc, and the white one is (I think) same as the black one I already have…

[@kanniet_quadpus]

As a Cure collector I ordered the black, 2black, white, marble, tape, 2tape, cd and deluxe cd, picture disc and glow in the dark picture disc. I only missed the Obi (Assai) edition I believe

[@DaveDenyer]

@@kanniet_quadpuswow, respect!

[@JonPickles]

Hi Dave i believe the dirty rhythm guitar is Robert and the lead riff guitar is Reeves Gabrels, Bowie’s guitarist

[@DaveDenyer]

Hi Jon, Yes, that's what I believe to be the case...

[@hellterskeltor]

I love the record 1000 percent, and i have to say i even noticed a difference between the amazon digital and the usa deluxe digital 😀 PS i have the cd as well coming for the dolby atmos mix cannot wait for that to get here.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. I’m looking forward to comparing the various digital versions too. I usually prefer analogue media, but not always…

[@FormulaProg]

Do you have any idea what happened to the proposed release of a trick of the tale on 45 RPM? My pre-order was cancelled

[@DaveDenyer]

I just checked my order is still showing as 'back ordered'. I'm expecting it next month...

[@bitburn]

It is indeed an incredible record.

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad you agree, thanks for the feedback.

[@vinylpatrol101]

I’ve listened to it several times, it’s a solid album - not an essential Cure album in my opinion but nevertheless a good effort. Maybe at the level of Wish? Disintegration was the last true masterpiece, if you don’t have an original of that definitely seek one out for a true dynamic experience 👍

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the good advice!

[@Krell666]

Agree. And weirdly I think the original non-barcode CD is actually the best version.

[@charlesgund4812]

I picked this up today following your review Dave, I managed to get the Bernie G Version. I checked after watching about the double and was surprised to see it was 33rpm…why not cut it at 45rpm I wonder? Thanks for the heads up anyway on the versions!

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Charles, one word of advice: it's best played loud!

[@charlesgund4812]

@ I listened earlier. It was surprisingly quiet….i had to crank the amp about 25% more than usual. When I did though, it actually didn’t sound bad. Yes. Technically not audiophile at all….but the production is what it is. It had good bass but very dense like you said. But the album…wow, I really enjoyed it. I remember Mike from In Groove talking about this new eco vinyl they’re using and he mentioned about it needing to be cut much lower volume…

[@DaveDenyer]

@@charlesgund4812 so glad you enjoyed the album. Thanks for the update.

[@Violette-k1w]

THE CURE KING 👑 OF ROCK

[@DaveDenyer]

👍

[@rongreen1538]

Good morning Dave, thank you for an informative and fascinating video. I have often wondered why artists produce such bad sounding recordings and mixes, do they never listen to the final mix and subsequent test pressings. It’s infuriating to think how good this record could have been. As for Miles Showel, no thanks, I can’t stand the sound of his masters. Looks like the BG cut if I can find it. Have a great day and thank you once again.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Ron.

[@jptabja]

Thanks Dave. I was waiting for this review and you did it very fast and really detailed. I just received the Black Bernie Grundman version yesterday. It sounds ok to me but certainly not as good from the sound quality perspective as early Cure records like Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Wish and others. 12 inch singles of that era are ear blowing. From the music perspective this album is a masterpiece and one of the best The Cure albums for sure. There are three Bernie Grundman versions - the US Black, European Marble and a picture disc called Glow in The Dark. The US one is pressed in Mexico not at Pallas germany. I also ordered the 2 x LP from the Cure's website. The double deluxe 2 x 33 RPM edition is is cut by Miles Showell. I am still waiting for the Deluxe edition to arrive. There are so many versions and the only way to find which is which is going to Discogs. The US Marble edition is cut by Miles Showell.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for all the feedback. I wasn’t certain what was on the two disc ‘half speed mastered’ version. Still keen to hear the CD, Blu-ray, and the cassette.

[@jptabja]

@@DaveDenyer The album as you mentioned is a masterpiece. One of the best albums of the year 100%. I just updated my comment mentioning - not as good from the sound perspective. I will post a comment when I receive the double LP.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@jptabja👍

[@Element115-75]

I have the 2LP version split across to LP’s , so it does exist

[@DaveDenyer]

@@Element115-75​​⁠​​⁠ brilliant! If what I get isn’t what I expect I’ll order what you’ve got there!

[@tomwebb7091]

The real question is... is there a variant that doesnt use the terrible bio vinyl? And the Bernie marbled colour WILL be adding abit of noise just in itself? Also theres a 2xLP cut which definately will sound the best

[@DaveDenyer]

I’ve got the 2LP version coming. We shall see if it sounds the best…

[@tomwebb7091]

@DaveDenyer Let us know! It will be the same mix so all the cutter has to do is not screw up. Neither Miles or Bernie are known for this so as long as they preserve the mix it should come out better as theres alot of music for one lp to make work anx spreading it out should improve things. The only missed trick is the 2LP hasnt been done at 45rpm but id still expect audibly superior playback. Then again ive been wrong about things before 😂

[@zoeherriot]

I mean... the Cure are kinda famous for wall of sound layered noise. ;)

[@DaveDenyer]

To be honest I've not bought any of their albums since the 1980s, so they are all quite a bit different to this, but as I state in the video, I absolutely love this, more so than the 80s Cure albums I've got.

[@zoeherriot]

@ they’ve had moments throughout the 80’s. Hints of that more dense production are on The Top, Kiss Me, Disintegration… but it probably was most evident on Wish.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@zoeherriot I do need to check out some of these albums too.

[@zoeherriot]

@@DaveDenyer If you are into the ambient side of things (like The Cure, lush guitar soundscapes - but a little less grit) - I highly recommend The Church. Starfish or Priest=Aura are amazing albums - and typically there is an overlap in Cure/Church fans. (Priest=Aura sounds a bit more modern, and has some great E-Bow, reverb floaty kind of psychedelia).

[@DaveDenyer]

@@zoeherriot thanks, I'll check them out.

[@tubinonyou]

Are the 1LP versions in a gatefold or just the 2LP 33rpm?

[@DaveDenyer]

The 1 LP versions are in not in gatefold sleeves. I don’t know about the 2 LO version yet…

[@amilcardiegoamarante5050]

The " incredibly distorted guitar " that you are hearing , is actually the bass guitar , played by Simon Gallup , there is very little guitar on the album , most melodies are Robert's Bass VI , there are three R Gabrels awful solos and that's it , no acoustic guitar either ... watch them perform this live and you'll see ...

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for pointing that out to me. I've now watched the live concert: you are right, it does seem to be the bass guitar is the main source of distortion.

[@latheofheaven]

Quite interesting... Not surprised, I've not been terribly impressed with a lot of Showell's more recent 1/2 speed stuff. I liked Fremer's comment about Showell's recent Who's Next album, he said that it sounded like, '... it was projected across a shower curtain, very flat and 2 dimensional' That's the way several of his have sounded on my system lately. No depth or true soundstage to speak of. The last really excellent 1/2 speed Abbey Road pressing that I heard (and have) is the outstanding Disraeli Gears by Cream. WOW! It is from the mono master, which I normally don't care for mono recordings. But, the sound is bloody amazing and totally blows away the standard stereo version by a lot. I had thought that Miles Showell's version of the Cure album was a 2-LP release...? Another fellow here on KZbin has a 'Goth' channel and he said he bought the 2-LP Miles Showell version. I'm a little surprised that you didn't go for that one. But, from your amazing impression of it, I will definitely have to give it a listen. ***EDIT Oh, that's what I get for commenting before finishing your video, sorry... I see you have indeed ordered the 2-LP version. I didn't realize it was a 45 pressing. You will definitely have to let us know how that one sounds. BTW... Have you listened to your Meteora 1-Step yet? If you haven't, please make sure to take any heart medication first, and to be on the safe side, have some Nitro pills ready nearby...

[@DaveDenyer]

Meteora is cleaned and ready to play. It’ll be next up if the other Cure albums (2LP etc) don’t arrive soon.

[@florenttenryu5011]

I don't understand the choice of compressing so much. The bass has a strange distorsion. Nevertheless, it's a good album and some pieces are great. Thank you for this review ❤

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. I'm with you regarding the production choices made, but also agree, it's a good album, in many ways, great.

[@StylusDrop]

Is the Miles Showell cut half speed mastered? If so then that might explain the difference in the bass. Many people, including myself do not care for half speed mastered records because it wrecks the bass.

[@DaveDenyer]

It doesn't specify as such, but I suspect it is.

[@Dario-d5o]

Am I wrong or the music on this record is a lttle dense?

[@DaveDenyer]

LOL I think it might be 😉

[@machiventa858]

did you not watch the video?

[@StuntrockConfusion]

I find it intelectually and emotionally pretty dense as well. Dreadful, tbh.

[@usquebaugh1]

You're not the first YT reviewer to praise the new music as 10/10 or at least as 'very strong', but then hesitate to rave about the pressing quality. FWIW, Discogs reviews are not great. I'm not sure what the difference is between eco vinyl and bio vinyl, but I have stayed away from "eco" thus far due to bad experience and moreover, bad pressing reviews. I've read about attempts about a more sustainable formula that does not degrade sound quality (and I'm all for it if it is possible); maybe "bio" is that. Add to that two different mastering engineers (again experience has me choosing the BG master even before listening) and it all leads to a lot of confusion...which is why I really appreciated your particular review. I will say that I did pick up a Wish repress last year that I really did not like (especially for the price) and haven't listened to it since; that was also a Elektra / Fiction / Rhino Records affiliated release...I mention all of that b/c this a Universal Music Group release... I have a fair amount of audiophile records (definite jazz and some folk...like Gillian Welch) but not necessarily Dire Straits or Steely Dan. I'm the type of listener that really liked the PF - Animals 2018 Remix, as well as the Rhine High Fidelity Television and Black Sabbath. A lot of word babble to say that this album seems so gray in content and recording, that it makes one one wonder why he didn't approach Kevin Gray (though his mastering schedule appears booked into the afterlife ;) I tend to like dedicated listening sessions...letting it wash over me, and dark, depressing lyrical content so I'm sure I will grow to appreciate this release, but I need to spend more time with it before committing to a physical copy. I've DLed a high quality 24/96 FLAC version to spend some time with while awaiting your 2 LP review ;)

[@DaveDenyer]

Glad you found this somewhat useful. I’m not convinced the ‘dirtiness’ is down to the pressing quality. I prefer both vinyl versions to the 24/96 stream but even that, I love!

[@lxtwin]

I have been a Cure fan since the beginning. This is a great album, but I feel that Roberts's vocals and emotions are lost and it is filled in by the music. Some of it reminds me of The Jesus and Mary Chain with the distortion.

[@DaveDenyer]

It is a shame that it wasn't mixed differently. I suspect this wasn't Bernie's easiest mastering job ever, as the various versions I've heard are all variants on a theme of dense, loud, overdriven, saturation. Someone has commented that the Atmos mix is way better, I have that on order and we shall see. I am assuming this is Robert's creative vision: to portray the darkness of the theme. In that respect, if that's the case, I can understand it... The Bernies Grundman version does keep hold of the frailty of Robert's voice better than the Miles Showell cut. The 33rpm one at least. I'll see what the 2LP version sounds like when that turns up...

[@lxtwin]

@@DaveDenyer , please let us know what the Atmos mix is like.

[@TheJoelSwaney]

Wonder how these compare to the 2lp half speed mastered version?

[@DaveDenyer]

I’m eager to find out!

[@TheLondonsBurning]

What about the 2 LP half speed master by Miles? I heard that one might sound more open and ‘audiophile’. Available from their web store.

[@DaveDenyer]

If you watch the video you’ll see I’ve ordered that, and the cd / bluray set, and the two cassettes… Part 2 to follow…

[@jptabja]

The 2 x LP - Deluxe edition has a second LP which is the instrumental version of the album. The first vinyl is exactly the same. This is cut by Miles Showell. I ordered it from the Cure's website.

[@mattpolhamus9194]

@@jptabja My 1/2 speed 2LP is the whole record on 2 LPS (33 rpm), nothing additional. I'm in the US, maybe that's a factor

[@MrKosh72]

@@jptabja This is wrong, it is the album spread over two LPs, there are no instrumentals.

[@Taffy84]

26.99 pounds??? That's $48.54 CAD, crazy price for a record.

[@DaveDenyer]

Really? I remember buying my first LP for £4.79 way back in 1979. That seems to me, in real terms, about the same money.

[@Taffy84]

@@DaveDenyer Well, I guess in a country where you pay 65 quid for lunch it's a fair price.

[@Taffy84]

@@DaveDenyer I just checked amazon Canada,$60.99 CAD for the vinyl version and $44.38 CAD for the CD, Ridiculous price and will never pay that.

[@jankoegl]

Don’t hold your breath with the half-speed version, everybody: totally distorted as well. Really a shame!!

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback. For me, it just has to sound better than the Bernie Grundman cut. Or, have more life and depth than the single disc Showell cut. Incidentally, is the 2 disc 33rpm or 45rpm?

[@jankoegl]

@@DaveDenyer I haven‘t listened to either, so I couldn‘t say. It‘s 33!

[@DaveDenyer]

@@jankoeglthanks for the info.

[@hkraytai]

On the 2LP the low end is very clean not bloated or overpowering. But the high end is grating especially when the guitar hit the high notes which is all the time. Robert’s voice seem to crackle because of the distortion. If the Bernie master is even more upfront then I guess I bought the right one.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@hkraytai thanks for the information. I'm looking forward to comparing these but as far as I know the Cure Store hasn't even shipped my records (tapes and CDs) yet...

[@oliviernaud7529]

I thought you were Dave Allen for a second 😅You kind of look like him and sound like him, at least to my ear

[@DaveDenyer]

🤣Goodnight, thank you, and may your God go with you.

[@donnydarko2100]

Nothing like preaching to the converted.

[@mattbelinski7760]

So it's a dense mix you're saying???

[@DaveDenyer]

Erm, maybe... ;-)

[@thomashertl3037]

Many thanks for your useful reviews. Indeed, RS‘s music here is out of this (lost) world. Big but! What a mess of different releases - mastering engineers, and Showell again :-(, color variants, pressing plants, single/double album … Bio vinyl? Maximum confusion as to which one to get. And: across all variants I am getting significant negative vibes as to mixing, mastering and/or pressing qualities. If this was the artist‘s intent, then Mr. Smith is maybe so solely focused on his musical art that he either doesn’t (want to or cannot) understand today’s vinyl market of long time and now more quality demanding vinyl lovers or is led by the label to address the mass market of hopefully young less quality demanding buyers or maybe collectors who like the cover and shelf their lps sealed. If this was not his intent and he wanted to make his longtime fans happy, he has thoroughly been misled by the label. By the very exception, because I am nearly an vinyl-only guy, I rather listen to the new album on my iPhone or similar before I go down the trial and error route with these different releases. Dave, chapeau for making the big effort and the money to buy all these for the benefits of your viewers. Thank you!

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Thomas. I’d definitely recommend you give it a few listens on your iphone. On mine, with very inexpensive earbuds. I did really enjoy the album, although it did make my ears rather warm.

[@paulhshudson]

I bought the download off the cure site. It's 16bit 44khz and it sounds so terrible I couldn't get through it. I've enjoyed watching the live concert on KZbin but the music is destroyed by the mastering. I wish I hadn't wasted my money.

[@DaveDenyer]

Honestly, I wouldn’t blame the mastering. The recording / mix are where this sound is born.

[@eccentricworx]

Same Mix, 2 different Masters. It is obvious actually, Miles Showell is famous for his Half Speed Mastering technique, which sounds superior to any other Masters on Vinyl. You called this the "regular Version", while it's actually a limited special edition. It sounds phantastic btw.

[@DaveDenyer]

I’m not generally a fan of Miles’ 1/2 speed cuts. However, each and every case is different, I’m hoping the 2LP version proves to be the best. Can’t wait until it arrives.

[@eccentricworx]

@DaveDenyer I just realized that there are 2 versions mastered by Miles. I was referring to the double vinyl, which wasn't available yet when I ordered months ago. Sorry for the confusion!

[@jonathanhayter1085]

Simon Gallup's bass makes many a cure song great..I am taken by the bass on 'A Fragile Thing', I like the way it rises . But I am not impressed with the mix generally, from what I heard of it . I also think that Reeve Gabrels is not the right guitarist for the band..He was great with Bowie, but here it misses somehow? I think the band were at their best when did their trilogy tours with Perry Beaumont ? But I haven't heard a satisfactory version , or heating of the album to give a proper verdict . So I respect your review here.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Jonathan. I'm still waiting for my order from the Cure store... Follow up video including the 2LP cut, CD, 24/96, Atmos (and cassette) versions to come...

[@stuarttaylor5750]

Bought this on CD - I refuse to pay the cost of new records nowadays. The music is OK, it just sounds like Pain of Salvation lite to me. Not really what I was expecting from The Cure.....

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for the feedback Stuart.

[@dubsurgeon1742]

why not just upload a good song from the lp with both versions of the mastering , so we can hear for ourselves ?! 🙄😁

[@DaveDenyer]

I'd imagine I'd get a copyright block. I even had to remove the clip of one of the 78s in last week's video...

[@fabiopatane9160]

I've yet have to find someone that, out of honesty, slated this bore of a record. Anyone who TRULY loves the band, and is familiar with their discography, knows that the band started to die 30 years ago, record-wise.

[@DaveDenyer]

I haven't looked but there must be negative reviews of this on KZbin. I felt my review is pretty damming regarding the sound... As far as boring goes... Well, that's surely subjective.

[@fabiopatane9160]

@@DaveDenyer Thank you for replying. However, I am not in any way interested in any audiophile approach to music, while you defined Songs Of A Lost World "absolutely phenomenal |...] as an emotional, creative, artistic statement". Now, you look quite experienced. Therefore, I can only question either your taste, or your honesty (enthusiastic album reviews are an easier winner, at least here on YT...). And, NO, I yet have to find a proper negative review of this album. Which say A LOT on these conformist, corporate-aligned, brain-dead, coward times...

[@DaveDenyer]

@@fabiopatane9160 you may be interested to know: my recent video titled "Trouble in Paradise" talking about how awful many modern reissues sound was by far the most successful video I've had for well over a year (although this Cure video is doing well, compared to my usual video performance). Generally, I don't like being negative and mostly talk about good sounding reissues. However, from experience these are not the most popular reviews...

[@fabiopatane9160]

@@DaveDenyer Also, went as far as defining this album as "prog", thus proving you have no idea what prog rock is, as prog is about creative freedom, experimentation, going beyond both boundaries and music genres, complexity of writing and performing, playing with the unexpected and so on, all qualities that this album clearly lacks.

[@fabiopatane9160]

@@DaveDenyer Yeah, I know, whining videos usually work, as well as safe slating. However, both you and I are well aware that pleasing the fanbase (see also all those awkward video reactions by supposed-classical trained teachers, or vocal coaches) is an even easier way of piling up views...

[@SAGNI0971]

I got the 2-plan half speed Miles master directly from the Cure website. Pretty terrible, muddy, bloated, etc., but I don’t think he was working with a good source.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for your feedback. I’m looking forward to hearing for myself. Maybe I’ll still prefer the BG. … you never know, maybe I’ll prefer the cassette!

[@SAGNI0971]

@ ha! I think this is a case where you’d be perfectly happy with the CD like most Cure releases.

[@mikemcguinness1304]

No mate shoal is crazy at mastering , I've said this before

[@SAGNI0971]

@@mikemcguinness1304 I don’t know - his work on the Who’s Who’s next is an unmitigated disaster. There always appears to be a veil hanging over his results. But to each his own.

[@mikemcguinness1304]

@SAGNI0971 yes mate... it seems everything miles touches , turns to shit . Like I say , everything i brought ( past tense)that he mastered is shite . Bernie grundman, Greg calbi, Bob Ludwig, George Marino,tom lord alge,,and the rest ...can't think of the names now ...look out for them ... most old releases are Brill

[@CHSS]

You don't know the difference in sound between black vinyl and colored vinyl. Okay, no need to talk about surface noise then, I suppose. 🧐

[@DaveDenyer]

It’s hard to say to be honest. The BG cut is around 3-4dB quieter so you do need to turn it up, so surface noise maybe a touch worse. However neither are what you’d call quiet. Both are “Bio Vinyl”, and these are the first bio vinyl LPs I have, as fas as I know… I’m certainly not impressed on purely sound quality reasons as stated in the video.

[@CHSS]

​@@DaveDenyer Bio vinyl could be the reason why itt's suffers from a little more surface noise. My coloured vinyl has always more noise.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@CHSS I really don't know anything about bio-vinyl, to be honest. Certainly neither of these pressing are super-quiet, but whether the coloured one is noticeably worse is hard to say... I must confess that I always used to buy black vinyl in preference to coloured if there was choice. Then I bought a Furutech Demag which works by supposedly dealing with trace magnetism caused by the carbon black pigments used in black vinyl. I believe this is why Classic Records, and now Analogue Productions developed Clarity Vinyl. However... I can easily demonstrate that even Clarity vinyl benefits from the Demag so it can't be down to the black pigment! There are certainly some records that sound dreadful, and my gut feeling is the vinyl is at least a contributing factor. The Beatles clear vinyl version of Now and Then, is an example. It uses a crystal clear vinyl that reminds me of the type used on picture discs (which do sound dreadful). There's a black vinyl version of the BG cut pressed in Mexico, for the US market. I've not heard any reports of that yet but may try to get one. However, the overriding issue with this record isn't the pressing so much as the mix, in my view.

[@StuntrockConfusion]

Oh, please enlighten us, then. I ran a pressing plant and consult on those very matters, as a professionnal. Always interesting to hear what people who call themselves audiophiles believe is causing surface noise ^^

[@CHSS]

@@StuntrockConfusion I'm not interested in people who behave like you. Go walking

[@Roudaki677]

I've gotten to the point that if possible at all. I avoid anything with Miles' name on the mastering, all lifeless.

[@DaveDenyer]

Almost certainly with remasters of albums I already have or can find an original.

[@Vinylathome]

Interesting but might have to give it a miss. I really struggle with Loudness wars . I love Soft Bulletin and Flaming lips but it hurts my ears and then l Loose interest. My loss l guess

[@DaveDenyer]

Worth a stream I’d say. If you don’t like it nothing lost.

[@Vinylathome]

@ I’ll wait see what you think of the CD/Bluray. I don’t do stream Dave. Thanks for all the great reviews

[@TractorCountdown]

This doesn't sound like loudness wars compression to me (and I know what you mean about The Soft Bulletin), it's more like tape saturation, like you'd get on dub reggae, so I didn't get any of that ear fatigue, finding myself drawn in, in a contemplative way, the better to listen to all the subtleties in the instrumentation and Rob's vocals. I think it's an artistic choice that fits the subject matter of the album.

[@Vinylathome]

@ wow thanks for the explanation might try the cd first then.

[@DaveDenyer]

@@TractorCountdownI agree. It sounds very much intended! It’s supposed to be ‘overpowering’. I love it.

[@revelry1969]

So frustrating every new mix mastering these days are so much crap. Protools plug in mixes done by kids in their parents basement somewhere. Bernie nor miles should cut this crap. Robert kills his music by allowing it to be so dynamically compressed. I buy no modern vinyl any longer. That golden glow is the distortion induced by his 1/2 speed mess.

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for your feedback. Btw. I think you’re right about the golden glow.

[@revelry1969]

@@DaveDenyer yup. It’s a real bummer. Amazing music pilfered by shotty production. 😕

[@davidchingching167]

I think the recording is poor and with respect after about ten listens it just doesn't get any better. Sadly it's been banished which is a shame after such a long wait.

[@DaveDenyer]

That is a shame David, which version do you have?

[@user-jp3vl5jx1j]

I don't understand the hype about this album.

[@DaveDenyer]

I can certainly understand why someone wouldn't like it.

[@IfUfindthisURlost]

Me too! Nothing they haven't done before. Yes, it's a Cure album, but there is nothing new.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

Bernie grundman is one of the most overrated in the game. There I said it

[@DaveDenyer]

He's not my number one, that's for sure, but he's certainly better than Miles Showell (in my humble opinion).

[@matshogberg342]

For me this album is so boring and sounds like a bad copy of Disintagration. Cant be compared with Cures masterpieces. Why is everybody think this album is so fantastic. Waited to long, maybe?

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for your feedback Mats.

[@IfUfindthisURlost]

I agree. I felt like I was missing something, because everyone is raving about it and I see there is nothing new here. I've bought this kind of 'Cure by numbers' album many times before. No melodies that stick, no experimentation. 16 years of waiting for the same old, same old!

[@woobiecat5631]

IMO.....Love the music....Worst dynamic range I have ever heard. I assume its compressed to hell. DR database low scores. On Prime HD 24/96, I have to turn the volume so low to make it non cringe. It is recorded so loud. The music is great. The audio quality makes it just about non listenable to me. Thats sad, this band should know better.

[@DaveDenyer]

Hence my quest to find the best sounding version. Absolutely love the music!

[@MatMatzs]

Maybe it's just me but this album as a whole has been quite a disappointment for me after such a long time. With the exceptions of the opening and closing tracks + I can never say goodbye. I only have the CD and the way it was mastered is a tragedy... terribly compressed, distorted and loud...

[@DaveDenyer]

Sorry to hear the album's not grabbed you. Although I entirely understand how the sound (mix / mastering) could completely put someone off. On my first listen I thought my stylus had broken.

[@MatMatzs]

@DaveDenyer thankyou for your reply. But let's not worry too much: I still have their other albums that I can still listen to, so that's 👌

[@boatingguy6469]

You are missing the point. The brilliance of Robert Smith is the compression and stress of the sound on this work. This is a fantastic work of artistry.

[@MatMatzs]

@@boatingguy6469 it's not about missing any points. When a bad mastering prevents the listener to fully enjoying the sonic experience, there's a problem. However, if you're happy with it, that's fine. I like 3 songs off the album and I'll keep listening to them. But the rest of the album is a no for me, and that's nothing to do with the poor sound quality. This is not the first album to suffer from sonic issues after all 👌

[@ajmwhiteside]

It reminds me of Disintegration- I only like the second half

[@johnalexander-t6d]

sorry but its the cure by numbers... like a tribute band to themselves.. so lyrically tired - lost, alone, its dark, its cold, its the end... we've heard it all before and done much better... its not terrible, it just par for the course like many 80s bands recent releases.. its an average ok ish Lp but not a patch on 17 seconds, faith, pornograpy and disintegration..

[@DaveDenyer]

Thanks for your feedback John. I’m pretty old and tired. Maybe that’s why I love it!

[@johnalexander-t6d]

@@DaveDenyer i do think in time people people will come to their senses and re-evaluate it... its 6/10.. clearly it's a big success which is good as it means i'll be able to pick up the cd for 50p in a charity shop next year..

[@amerigoormea]

Completely agree with you. Old Cure fan here, since the 80's. Saw them in Rome in '89. This record is just ok for my ears. I find it predictable, both lyrically and musically. Not exciting, not sad, just kind of flat. Guitar solos are the worst part for me. The problem is that I don't find this album particularly gloomy, it's way too comfortable, too easy listening, too plain, too generic. When I first heard Pornography, it ripped me apart. It still does. I still bought SOALW though, because I love The Cure, they have a been a huge part of my musical journey.

[@chrisknowlton9460]

Finally a voice of reason. Don't believe the hype! Far from their best since Disintegration.

[@johnklein7127]

Dave i have the white edition & the Bernie Edison & my verdict is the same as yours, The Bernie is better & quieter, I am waiting on the double abby road Edison so let's see/ hear how that sounds.. Great reviews by the way.🎼🎵🎶😉

[@JBLClassic]

I must be one of a handful of people who find this album boring and uninspired. Throw in a terrible mix and it seems like a dud all around.

[@DaveDenyer]

That was my first impression, for sure. It grew on me, very quickly!

[@JBLClassic]

@@DaveDenyer maybe I’ll give it another try.

[@FleagleSangria]

@@JBLClassic Try listening to it as an album experience rather than expecting much from the individual songs. This really seemed to click it in with me.

[@StuntrockConfusion]

@@JBLClassic Don't bother, Frank, it's utter crap. Hope you're feeling better

[@JBLClassic]

@ Thanks Stunty, much better than last week!

[@boatingguy6469]

Fascinating how Robert Smith layers the instruments in this record. Agree there is compression and distortion but it is planned to give the album its unique toxic atmosphere. Masterpiece!

[@DaveDenyer]

Absolutely!