Sunday, June 6, 2010

CD Review: The Cure Disintegration Deluxe Edition

Artist: The Cure


Album: Disintegration: Deluxe Edition (originally released as "Disintegration")


Worth Buying? Yes, especially if you are a fan of The Cure


You might be interested in this album is you are a fan of: The Cure, Bauhaus, New Order.


Tell Me More: "Disintegration: Deluxe Edition" brings added depth to the Cure's eighth studio album, originally released in 1989. "Disintegration: Deluxe Edition" is aptly-named, with the three-disc release boasting the original 12-song album in all its sonic glory. But providing even more reason to celebrate are the scores of demos, rehearsals and other gems providing a first-hand listen of the evolution of "Disintegration" via 20 previously-unreleased tracks (featured on the second disc), and an expanded/remixed view of "Entreat," a live album recorded in 1989 at Wembley Arena during The Cure's sold-out Prayer Tour that fills the third disc. The sound of the recordings is incredible, with the original "Disintegration" tracks sounding spacious and free of the annoying compression that often fouls modern-day remix efforts aimed primarily at pushing up the volume of older recordings. Now that you know the quality of the discs - overseen by Cure frontman Robert Smith - is perfect, there is the best-not-forgotten fact that "Disintegration" is a masterpiece. From the immediately-infecious "Lovesong" to the enthralling "The Same Deep Water As You" and dark and propulsive rocker "Fascination Street," the layers of sound positioned around Robert Smith's poignant vocals and textured guitar work have never sounded as clear as they do across this stunning collection. With the recent reissue of The Rolling Stones "Exile on Main Street" and newly-issued "Disintegration: Deluxe Edition,"2010 is already shaping up to be an amazing year for reissues.


What about the packaging? Of most interest to long-time fans is the 3-disc CD set that comes with a 20-page booklet containing previously unseen photos and artwork, as well as an in-depth overview of The Cure during the "Disintegration" period from singer-songwriter-guitarist Robert Smith. The CD package sells for a suggested list price of $39.98; the tracks are available digitally for $19.98. The remastered album is also available on vinyl.


Deluxe 3 disc edition

Deluxe Vinyl Edition

Mp3 Version

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