The Cure bassist Gary Jarman has curated a deeply personal playlist for The Guardian, revealing the tracks that have defined his musical journey. The selection spans from the Bee Gees' disco anthems to Jennifer Rush's power ballads and the soulful harmonies of the Righteous Brothers.
A Lifelong Love for the Bee Gees
Jarman's playlist opens with the Bee Gees' "Stayin' Alive," a track he describes as "the ultimate dance song." He recalls how the song's driving beat and falsetto vocals captivated him as a child. "It was impossible not to move to it," he says. The inclusion of "How Deep Is Your Love" further underscores his admiration for the Gibb brothers' songwriting prowess.
Jennifer Rush and the Power of the Ballad
The playlist also features Jennifer Rush's 1984 hit "The Power of Love," which Jarman calls "a masterclass in emotional delivery." He notes that the song's crescendo and Rush's vocal performance have influenced his own approach to dynamics in music. "It taught me that a song can build and release tension in a way that feels almost cinematic," he explains.
The Righteous Brothers: Blue-Eyed Soul
Another standout is the Righteous Brothers' "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'.'" Jarman praises the duo's ability to convey heartbreak through their harmonizing. "That song is a perfect example of how two voices can create something greater than the sum of their parts," he says. The track's production, with its sweeping orchestration, also left a lasting impression on him.
Other Tracks and Influences
Beyond these headliners, Jarman includes songs by artists like Roxy Music, David Bowie, and Talking Heads. He credits Roxy Music's "Virginia Plain" with sparking his interest in art-rock, while Bowie's "Heroes" represents a "sonic landmark" that pushed boundaries. Talking Heads' "Once in a Lifetime" is praised for its rhythmic complexity and lyrical absurdity.
Personal Reflections
Jarman's playlist is not just a collection of favorites but a reflection of his own growth as a musician. He says, "These songs are the ones that made me want to pick up a bass and write music. They're ingrained in my DNA." The list also includes a nod to his early days in the Manchester music scene, with tracks from Joy Division and The Smiths.
Impact on The Cure
While Jarman is best known for his work with The Cure, he emphasizes that these influences have shaped the band's sound indirectly. "We've always been about creating atmosphere and emotion, and these songs are the blueprint for that," he notes. The playlist offers fans a glimpse into the musical mind of one of alternative rock's most respected bassists.
