'Songs of a Lost World': The Cure's triumphant return after 16 years

ICYMI: The album is out now, but to mark the highly anticipated release of Songs of a Lost World, their 14th studio album, The Cure had performed two intimate sets at the historic BBC Radio Theatre. Released on November 1, 2024, this album comes 16 years after their 2008 record, 4:13 Dream, and showcases the band’s gothic sound paired with new introspections on mortality and loss​.

The performances were part of special broadcasts, with one session recorded for Huw Stephens on BBC 6 Music and another as part of the Radio 2 In Concert series. Robert Smith of The Cure had said: "It’s not often we perform such intimate shows, so we’re really looking forward to this, and to sharing more tracks from the new album for the first time on 6 Music and Radio 2."

This second show welcomed an audience comprised of guests and contest winners — highlighting the band's persistent popularity as entry applications numbered in the six figures​. Clearly, this is not a band struggling to "grow their brand."

The set for 6 Music included a blend of new and classic material. Highlights from the new album featured live renditions of "And Nothing Is Forever," "I Can Never Say Goodbye," and the debut of "All I Ever Am."

The Cure has plenty of classic tracks

Classic tracks performed included songs from their seminal 1989 album, Disintegration, such as "Plainsong" and "Prayers For Rain," alongside fan-favorites "A Forest" and "Burn" from The Crow soundtrack​. To show how wide-ranging their release regimen is, you can even buy the album on cassette!

The second performance, more geared toward BBC Radio 2's broader audience, had frontman Robert Smith accompanied by longtime bandmates: bassist Simon Gallup, keyboardist Roger O'Donnell, multi-instrumentalist Perry Bamonte, drummer Jason Cooper, and guitarist Reeves Gabrels.

Known for his reserved stage presence, Smith kept commentary to a minimum, lightheartedly admitting he would have prepared more if he were "a better frontman" (no doubt, many still consider him a charming performer). This show transitioned into what could only be described as a procession of hits. It included upbeat renditions of "Pictures Of You," "Lovesong," "Lullaby," "In Between Days," and "Just Like Heaven," showcasing The Cure's elite level ability to balance their darker themes with mainstream appeal​.

The new album Songs of a Lost World, entirely written by Smith, is described as deeply personal, reflecting on themes of aging and bereavement. It was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales (where the band Queen recorded "Bohemian Rhapsody," and other bands recorded massive hits) and features tracks like "Alone" and "Endsong," which bookend the album with poignant reflections on loss​.

Critics have likened its brooding style to Disintegration, lauding its emotional depth and rich instrumentation​. Smith, the only original member remaining since The Cure's 1976 formation in Crawley, England, continues to blend melancholy with melody, ensuring their music resonates across generations​.