THE CULT — Dreamtime (review)

THE CULT — Dreamtime album cover Album · 1984 · Non-Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3/5 ·
UMUR
"Dreamtime" is the debut full-length studio album by UK hard rock act The Cult. The album was released through Beggars Banquet in September 1984. The recording process was mared by a couple of issues as original producer Joe Julian left the project after having recorded the drums and new producer John Brand had to use the original drum tracks as drummer Nigel Preston was already at this point unreliable. Preston was notoriously known for his wild party life. He died of a heroin overdose in April 1992. "Dreamtime" was a relatively successful release in terms of sales numbers as it reached #21 in the UK charts and #1 in the UK indie chart.

The music on the album is a blend of hard rock and goth/indie rock with some new wave elements thrown in for good measure. Ian Astbury´s Jim Morrison-like voice is powerful and commanding. The rythm section sometimes recall the sound of acts like The Smiths and The Sisters of Mercy and the same can be said about some of the guitar riffs. Sometimes to a point where I almost expect Andrew Eldritch to start singing. Ultimately he of course doesn´t and Ian Astbury´s more expressive way of singing is what first and foremost provide the hard rock edge to this release. The Cult´s fascination with ethnic original cultures began on this album, and there are references to both Native American and Australian Aboriginal culture on the album (a theme they would further explore on subsequent releases).

"Dreamtime" is quite an enjoyable release by The Cult and tracks like "Horse Nation" and especially "Spiritwalker" show both promise and a hint of the direction the band would move in, in the following years. A 3 star (60%) rating is warranted.
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