Songs of a Lost World, the fourteenth studio album from English post-punk pioneers The Cure, captures a snapshot of the band after a tumultuous couple of years. All the tracks were composed solely by the band's iconic frontman, Robert Smith. This marks The Cure's first studio album since 4:13 Dream in 2008 and the debut full-length album to feature Reeves Gabrels on guitar since he joined the band in 2012. Additionally, it welcomes back Roger O'Donnell, who rejoined in 2011.

Andrew Trendell of NME gave the album a five-star review, calling it “arguably the most personal album of Smith's career". He noted that while mortality casts a shadow over the record, there is still “heart in the darkness” and “flowers on the grave.” Éamon de Paor of The Irish Times awarded it four stars, describing it as “majestically desolate” and “gorgeously grim", comparing its sound to bands like Nine Inch Nails, Cocteau Twins, Pink Floyd, and New Order. Sam Walker-Smart of Clash praised it as one of The Cure’s most emotionally raw albums, noting its cohesiveness and highlighting “Endsong” as a standout. John Robb of Louder Than War rated it 5/5, calling it an album of “elegiac, brooding masterpieces” that channels loss with haunting melodies and dark, atmospheric music.

The album's creation reflects a turbulent period for Smith, who faced the deaths of his brother and multiple family members. These personal losses seem to have fueled the emotional depth of Songs of a Lost World, intensifying the existential themes that have long been part of The Cure's music. The lyrics explore mortality, grief, and reflections on the past, while the track “Warsong” stands out for its rare social commentary, addressing lies, shame, and anger.

Musically, the album pairs these heavy themes with a focused and direct sound, despite its often glacial pace. Simon Gallup’s visceral bass and the powerful drums evoke the intensity of Pornography (1982), while the layered, atmospheric soundscapes provide moments of beauty, such as the piano on “And Nothing Is Forever” and the enveloping synthesizer in “I Can Never Say Goodbye". The result is a tightly curated collection of eight tracks that capture both the personal and musical mastery of The Cure at this stage of their career.

Released via Polydor Records in 2024. 

Tracklist: (Vinyl sides will become available closer to release date)