What makes The Only One by The Cure notable?

The single 'The Only One' achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. It became notable for re-establishing The Cure's presence in mainstream music while also receiving positive critical reception, with many appreciating its melodic structure reminiscent of their earlier work. By 2008, The Cure was enjoying a resurgence in popularity following their 2004 album 'The Cure'. 'The Only One' marked a significant point in their career as it was their first single from the album '4:13 Dream', showcasing a return to form after years of experimentation and lineup changes. This release highlighted Robert Smith's enduring presence in the alternative rock scene.

How many songs are on The Only One?

The Only One has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

The Only One

The Cure · 2008

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of shimmering melodies and haunting vocals, capturing the essence of The Cure's signature sound in a modern light.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Only One (mix 13) — This track serves as the album's lead single, showcasing the infectious melodies and lyrical themes of longing that define The Cure’s style.
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NY Trip — Offering a more experimental sound, this track captures the urban, restless energy of New York, highlighting the band’s ability to blend emotion with atmospheric soundscapes.

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 signature sound while balancing modern production elements.

What we noticed

The lead track features a steady mid-tempo beat with layered guitars and synths that create a lush soundscape.
The second track, 'NY Trip', is an instrumental piece that contrasts the first by focusing on atmospheric sound rather than melody.

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 — Re-established The Cure's presence in mainstream music after a period of lower visibility.
Themes: New York nights· gothic romance
Career context: By 2008, The Cure was enjoying a resurgence in popularity following their 2004 album 'The Cure'. 'The Only One' marked a significant point in their career as it was their first single from the album '4:13 Dream', showcasing a return to form after years of experimentation and lineup changes. This release highlighted Robert Smith's enduring presence in the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· Joy Division· The Sisters of Mercy