Episode 37: The Cure - The Head on the Door (1985) Part 1

After 36 episodes, Brian and Sarah decide it's finally time to discuss one of alternative rock's most long-lived and influential bands, The Cure. The album they select is the sixth release from Robert Smith and company, 1985's "The Head on the Door."  And, they've brought in friend of the show and guest co-host Colby Zell to join in the discussion, since this album is near and dear to him as well. A lengthy and lively conversation ensues!

Part 1: Album History

"The Head on the Door" is the first album by what many consider to be the classic Cure lineup. Brian provides us with details on how this incarnation of the band came to be, as well as what other things Robert Smith had going on in the time immediately beforehand.  Sarah shares the release and chart information for the album, explains where the album title came from, and also prompts an interesting and somewhat humorous discussion about the album cover art.

Part 2: Personal History

Colby explains how he came to acquire "The Head on the Door" and expresses his frustration in being unable to get other friends interested in The Cure at the time. Brian, ever the rebel, reveals how he engaged in an activity forbidden by his parents in order to obtain his copy of the cassette. Sarah says her first exposure to The Cure came via a mixtape, which contained some song titles that caused her to raise her eyebrows.

Part 3: Track by Track

The trio finally get down to the business of exploring the tracks on side one of the album. The Cure is hailed by many as goth-rock pioneers, but our hosts encounter a variety of musical styles and influences as they progress through the songs. Brian discloses a traumatic experience he had involving the video for the first single, to which Colby provides no sympathy. Robert Smith's unique voice is discussed, with Sarah mentioning an easily-won argument she had in college about that topic.  Colby provides tips for binge drinking on a budget in Portugal.  Also covered are such diverse topics as misheard lyrics, habitual lying, New Order, and Epcot Center.

 In Between Days Kyoto Song The Blood Six Different Ways Push 

See the video we discuss here:

In Between Days

  

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