Just like a dream

Looking back to two decades ago, in the height of hair bands and heyday of new wave, we can thank our lucky stars that certain musical trends faded into oblivion. But while some collapsed under the weight of their feathered ‘dos, others were launched forward as creative antitheses to the mainstream.  

However, suggesting then that the Cure, unlikely leaders of the ‘80s alternative movement, would still be relevant in 2008 seemed almost impossible.

But Robert Smith and company can have the last laugh, with the release of their fourteeneth studio album, 4:13 Dream. Aside from a slight production sheen, The Cure don’t sound like they’ve aged a day since 1987, and although this could be considered stunted growth, it marks a comforting return to their creative peak.

Oscillating between the dark imagery of past works like Disintegration and the lighter, melodic sensibility of Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me, the album hits the ears and the heart in all the right places.

Within the first two luring minutes of 4:13 Dream Smith’s infamous and sappy drone envelops the listener like an old friend, especially on “The Only One,” a near-sequel to their classic “Just Like Heaven.”

“Freakshow” showcases some newfound creative nuances and delivers a funkier, modern sound à la the Talking Heads, while “Sirensong” employs a hint of alt-country with a crying slide guitar floating throughout.

“The Real Snow White” rolls in with menacing proclamations of “You’ve got what I want” in Smith’s begging British drawl. Despite a lighter, hopeful break in the middle, it soon returns to its sinister and powerful sound.

“Switch” starts off with a skittish guitar freak-out, as a persistent roll of drums gallops in, followed by a large-looming guitar sound that moves the song infinitely upward. Luscious and tangible, the song leaps out of the speakers and showcases the band’s ability to seemingly transcend the art of songwriting.

Upon a single listen, 4:13 Dream charms and captivates. It can be guaranteed that this is one cure everyone needs to discover.