The Cure's 'Songs Of A Lost World' reviewed ahead of November 1 release

Journalists were given an exclusive early listen to The Cure's first new album in 16 years, 'Songs Of A Lost World,' at Universal Music Italia's new Milan offices near Porta Romana, where the 2026 Olympic Village will be built. The event, a rarity in the music industry, took place three weeks before the official November 1 release. The album marks a return to the band's dark roots, reminiscent of 'Bloodflowers' (2000) and 'Disintegration' (1989), with themes of death, loss, and resignation. Robert Smith, now 65, channels personal grief from the deaths of his parents and brother Richard, to whom the track 'I Can Never Say Goodbye' is dedicated. The album consists of 8 tracks spanning 50 minutes, with lyrics drawing inspiration from Victorian poet Ernest Dowson's 'Dregs.' The first single 'Alone' was released on September 26, and a second single 'A Fragile Thing' is expected. The listening session was held in a newly renovated sustainable building with a recording studio and two listening rooms, including a Dolby Atmos room.