What makes Fascination Street by The Cure notable?

The track 'Fascination Street' reached number 1 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, solidifying The Cure's presence in the alternative music landscape. This release marked a significant moment for the band, as they began to explore more commercially viable sounds without sacrificing their artistic identity. Released in 1989, 'Fascination Street' came during The Cure's transition into mainstream success following the critical acclaim of their previous album, 'Disintegration.' This remix EP showcased their ability to adapt to emerging trends in the dance music scene while maintaining their signature gothic sound.

How many songs are on Fascination Street?

Fascination Street has 4 tracks, running approximately 21 minutes.

Fascination Street

The Cure · 1989

21 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A hypnotic blend of pulsating rhythms and shimmering guitar layers, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and danceable.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Fascination Street (remix) — This version captures the essence of the original while enhancing its danceability with electronic elements, making it a staple in alternative clubs of the era.
→
Babble — 'Babble' stands out for its intricate layering and atmospheric soundscapes, showcasing The Cure's ability to merge pop sensibilities with their darker aesthetic.
→
Out of Mind — This track features introspective lyrics paired with a driving beat, illustrating the juxtaposition of emotional depth and rhythmic energy that defines much of The Cure's work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases The Cure's blend of hypnotic rhythms and atmospheric layers, marking their shift towards mainstream appeal.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving bassline and layered guitars that create a dense, immersive soundscape.
The remix alters the original's structure by extending instrumental sections, enhancing its danceability.
The two additional tracks provide contrasting styles, with 'Babble' featuring a more subdued tempo and 'Out of Mind' incorporating ambient elements.

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

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 — This single solidified The Cure's mainstream success post-Disintegration.
Themes: late-night escapism· gothic romance· danceable melancholy
Career context: Released in 1989, 'Fascination Street' came during The Cure's transition into mainstream success following the critical acclaim of their previous album, 'Disintegration.' This remix EP showcased their ability to adapt to emerging trends in the dance music scene while maintaining their signature gothic sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· Joy Division· The Sisters of Mercy