Released in 1980, Seventeen Seconds marked a dramatic shift in The Cure’s sound, moving away from the raw post-punk energy of their debut (Three Imaginary Boys) and into a darker, atmospheric style that would define their early gothic period. This album introduced a minimalist, cold, and melancholic aesthetic, with echoing guitars, haunting synths, and Robert Smith’s introspective lyrics. The album’s standout track, "A Forest," became one of The Cure’s most iconic songs, setting the stage for their future success. Seventeen Seconds is often seen as the first part of The Cure’s "Dark Trilogy" (followed by Faith and Pornography), establishing their signature moody and cinematic sound.

Tracklist:

Side A:
A1. A Reflection
A2. Play for Today
A3. Secrets
A4. In Your House
A5. Three

Side B:
B1. The Final Sound
B2. A Forest
B3. M
B4. At Night
B5. Seventeen Seconds