1985 was a great year for rock music. There’s no doubt. A plethora of heavy rock bands, new wave genius’ and progressive pop masters were taking form. Eventually, they started to dominate the charts. And one of the great albums of the era is The Cult’s breakthrough album ‘Love.’
Considered one of the greatest hybrid rock albums of all time, ‘Love’ saw The Cult expand their original sound into new territory. Combining new wave goth alternative with progressive elements. As well as a small tint Sunset Strip, hard rock prominence in Billy Duffy’s guitar playing and riffage. With Ian Astbury’s Jim Morrison inspired baritone voice commanding the helm. They molded a sound that was uniquely theirs. And is still to this day.
The opening track ‘Nirvana’ is a prime example of all the elements present. A killer 80’s dance beat. Plucked out guitar chords and typical gothic vocals. Then the bridge hits. With its driving groove and Led Zeppelin power. ‘Big Neon Glitter’ shines with its alternative rock shuffle. While the title track is the first on the album to display the direction that The Cult would go. ‘Brother Wolf, Sister Moon’ shows the bands favoritism towards Native American culture and tropes. A theme that would be present throughout the bands career. ‘Rain’ is simply a classic. An underrated gem that should have been a massive hit.
‘Phoenix’ is an even better example of where The Cult were headed. A tasty riff and sick groove. And a killer, dominant guitar solo by Billy Duffy. ‘Hollow Man’ is in many ways part two to ‘Rain.’ ‘Revolution’ is one of the great ballads from the era. And yet another overlooked track. ‘She Sells Sanctuary’ was the hit off the album. And rightly so. The penultimate track displays everything The Cult represented at the time. It still remains a prominent set list song. And a continuous fan favorite. The record closes out with ‘Black Angel.’ A mediocre track that rounds out the album.
‘Love’ was the beginning of a successful run for The Cult. One that would eventually lead to top ten Billboard charting in just four short years. And while it’s sonic elements don’t quite match up with the future direction of the band. Abandoning the alternative, gothic vibes of the early years. Forging a hard rock sound that would rival any band at the time. Making themselves a household name. And becoming legends of rock.
