What makes Close to Me by The Cure notable?

'Close to Me' achieved notable commercial success, reaching number 24 in the UK Singles Chart and contributing to The Cure's growing popularity. Its catchy melody and innovative production helped to define the sound of the mid-1980s alternative scene, influencing numerous artists and bands that followed. Released on September 17, 1985, 'Close to Me' came as The Cure was transitioning from their early post-punk roots to a more mainstream sound. This single followed the success of their album 'The Head on the Door', marking a period of significant commercial appeal for the band as they began to solidify their presence in the alternative rock scene.

How many songs are on Close to Me?

Close to Me has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Close to Me

The Cure · 1985

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A buoyant blend of jangly guitars and synthesizers underpins Robert Smith's distinctive, emotive vocal delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Close to Me (extended) — This track exemplifies the band's signature sound with its infectious hooks and vibrant energy, showcasing how they blended gothic elements with pop sensibilities.
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A Man Inside My Mouth — With its darker lyrics and experimental approach, this song highlights The Cure's ability to juxtapose light melodies with unsettling themes, enriching the album's overall depth.
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Stop Dead — This track further illustrates the band's evolution, combining a driving rhythm with introspective lyrics that delve into themes of isolation and existential angst.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and production but lacks the cohesive flow of an album.

What we noticed

The extended version of 'Close to Me' features a prominent use of synthesizers that create a buoyant atmosphere, while the jangly guitars provide rhythmic support.
The track 'A Man Inside My Mouth' introduces a darker tone with its more aggressive guitar riffs and a driving beat, contrasting sharply with the lead single.
The final track, 'Stop Dead', employs a slower tempo and more introspective lyrics, creating a shift in mood that closes the single on a reflective note.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — 'Close to Me' contributed to The Cure's growing popularity and mainstream recognition.
Themes: surreal imagery· gothic pop fusion· introspective buoyancy
Career context: Released on September 17, 1985, 'Close to Me' came as The Cure was transitioning from their early post-punk roots to a more mainstream sound. This single followed the success of their album 'The Head on the Door', marking a period of significant commercial appeal for the band as they began to solidify their presence in the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· Joy Division· The Sisters of Mercy

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Close to Me (extended)

The chorus employs a repeated melodic phrase that elevates the emotional intensity while maintaining an almost whimsical tone.

This structural choice creates a paradox between joy and melancholy, encapsulating the essence of The Cure's style during this pivotal moment in their career.