What makes Jumping Someone Else's Train by The Cure notable?

This single gained attention for its raw energy and was pivotal in establishing The Cure's presence in the post-punk scene. It also showcased their growing popularity in the UK, helping to solidify their reputation as innovators within alternative rock and new wave. Released on November 20, 1979, 'Jumping Someone Else's Train' was The Cure's second single, following their debut album 'Three Imaginary Boys'. This period marked the band's evolution from a more straightforward punk sound into the darker, atmospheric tones that would define their later work.

How many songs are on Jumping Someone Else's Train?

Jumping Someone Else's Train has 2 tracks, running approximately 5 minutes.

Jumping Someone Else's Train

The Cure · 1979

5 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A brisk post-punk exploration where jangly guitars intertwine with introspective lyrics, capturing youthful angst and disillusionment.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Jumping Someone Else’s Train — The title track encapsulates the band's signature sound with its catchy hooks and vivid storytelling about escapism and detachment.
→
I’m Cold — This track features a haunting melody paired with lyrics that express feelings of isolation, reflecting the emotional depth that would characterize much of The Cure's future work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

This single showcases The Cure's early sound with strong melodies and emotional lyrics, marking their rise in post-punk.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving rhythm with jangly guitars that create a sense of urgency throughout its duration.
The second track, 'I’m Cold', shifts to a more subdued tempo while maintaining the same guitar style, creating contrast within the single.
Both tracks feature introspective lyrics that reflect themes of youthful angst and disillusionment, enhancing their emotional resonance.

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: 8/10

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 — This single helped establish The Cure's presence in the post-punk scene.
Themes: post-punk disillusionment· suburban alienation
Career context: Released on November 20, 1979, 'Jumping Someone Else's Train' was The Cure's second single, following their debut album 'Three Imaginary Boys'. This period marked the band's evolution from a more straightforward punk sound into the darker, atmospheric tones that would define their later work.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· Joy Division· The Sisters of Mercy