The Cure The Top

Producers: Robert Smith, Chris Parry, Dave Allen.
The Cure: Robert Smith (vocals, various instruments); Laurence Tolhurst (various instruments); Porl Thompson (saxophone); Andy Anderson (drums).
The virtual definition of a "transitional album," the Cure's 1984 outing, THE TOP, was created during a turbulent time in the band's history, during which the group nearly disintegrated, and Smith was occupying himself by filling in as guitarist for Siouxsie & the Banshees (see their album HYAENA). THE TOP exemplifies Smith's restlessness, as fierce rock ("Shake Dog Shake," "Give Me It") mixes with PORNOGRAPHY-like gloom ("Wailing Wall") and quirky pop ("Birdmad Girl," "The Caterpillar"), the latter of which the Cure would explore further on THE HEAD ON THE DOOR and KISS ME, KISS ME, KISS ME. Although this isn't one of the group's most consistent albums, it's invaluable as a portrait of a band on the brink, and essential for hardcore Cure fans.

• Format: CD
• Released: 2006-10-10
• Genre: Rock