What makes In Between Days by The Cure notable?

The album achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 14 on the UK Albums Chart and further establishing The Cure as icons of the alternative rock movement. Its title track became one of their most recognizable songs, receiving extensive airplay and helping to define the sound of the era, influencing countless bands in the indie and alternative genres. In Between Days marks a pivotal moment in The Cure's career as their third studio album, following the breakthrough success of The Head on the Door. Released in 1985, this album solidified their status in the post-punk and new wave scenes, showcasing a more accessible sound while maintaining their distinct gothic aesthetic.

How many songs are on In Between Days?

In Between Days has 3 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

In Between Days

The Cure · 1985

8 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A buoyant mix of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics that encapsulates the essence of 80s alternative pop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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In Between Days — This track stands out with its infectious melody and reflective lyrics about the passage of time, capturing both yearning and hope. It's also emblematic of the band's shift towards a more pop-oriented sound while retaining their characteristic depth.
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The Exploding Boy — Featuring a driving rhythm and vivid imagery, this song exemplifies The Cure's ability to blend upbeat instrumentation with darker thematic elements, making it a fan favorite that showcases their versatility.
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A Few Hours After This — This track offers a more subdued, contemplative tone that contrasts with the album’s generally upbeat feel, demonstrating the band's range and emotional complexity within concise song structures.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The record showcases strong songwriting and production, with distinct shifts in mood across its tracks.

What we noticed

The title track features a bright, jangly guitar riff that drives the song, while the verses contrast with more introspective lyrics.
The second track, 'The Exploding Boy', introduces a heavier bass line and a more urgent tempo, creating a distinct shift in mood.
The final track, 'A Few Hours After This', slows down the pace significantly, featuring atmospheric synths and layered vocals.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 — Solidified The Cure's status in alternative rock after prior success.
Themes: mid-80s introspection· post-punk vibrancy
Career context: In Between Days marks a pivotal moment in The Cure's career as their third studio album, following the breakthrough success of The Head on the Door. Released in 1985, this album solidified their status in the post-punk and new wave scenes, showcasing a more accessible sound while maintaining their distinct gothic aesthetic.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· Joy Division· The Sisters of Mercy