The Cure: Robert Smith , Laurence Tolhurst, Andy Anderson , Simon Gallup.
Personnel: Robert "Big Bert" Smith (vocals, guitar); Porl Thompson (guitar, saxophone, keyboards); Laurence Tolhurst (keyboards); Andy Anderson (drums, percussion).
Recording information: Des Dames Studio (02/1982-05/1984); Eden Studios (02/1982-05/1984); Garden (02/1982-05/1984); Genetic Studio (02/1982-05/1984); Hammersmith Odeon, London, England (02/1982-05/1984); Olympic Studio (02/1982-05/1984); Zenith, Paris, France (02/1982-05/1984).
Photographers: P. Terrrasson; Steve Pyke; Motoko Sashi; Richard Bellia.
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.
Professional Reviews
Uncut (p.102) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "[The album] finds Smith altering his voice to express himself differently in song for the first time."
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