Rock heroes The Cure have managed to transcend generational divides, inspiring several decades’ worth of baby bats globally. Now, diehard fans can rejoice as The Cure is back and better than ever! Their latest single, “Alone,” comes ahead of their gargantuan album announcement. This cinematic feat captures everything The Cure masters, from expert composition to haunting Robert Smith vocals.

This seven-minute anthem feels like no time has passed regarding the song’s duration and the band’s absence. There is something beautiful about a band that can do whatever they want because they’ve already put in the work. The Cure is not in the business of making quick cash; instead, it is clear that they are simply creating to create.

Lyrically, “Alone” is at the heart of The Cure’s discography. It encapsulates their poetic tendencies, veering into territory uncharted by mainstream music in 2024. They assert that going against the grain is beneficial, even if difficult in oversaturated landscapes. “Alone” is more interesting than many other contemporary rock chart-toppers, not just because it’s by The Cure or almost 7 minutes long, but because it experiments and “plays.” We “play music,” after all.

If “Alone” indicates The Cure’s forthcoming album, fans should allow themselves to get excited. This was a long time in the making (16 years!), but good things come to those who wait. You can pre-order The Cure’s album, ‘Songs of a Lost World’ now—and it drops November 1.

I love Robert Smith!!!