David M. Allen
The engineer who shaped The Cure's classic sound.
via Wikipedia: David M. Allen · see source
David M. Allen is an English record producer, engineer and mixer, born 29 June 1953. He is mostly known for his work with new wave, synth-pop and goth rock bands including the Cure, the Sisters of Mercy, the Chameleons, Depeche Mode, the Mission, the Associates, the Human League, Clan of Xymox, Gianna Nannini, Shelleyan Orphan and others. He also produced Neneh Cherry's hit album Man. His work with The Cure includes engineering and mixing on albums such as 'The Top', 'Concert', 'The Head on the Door', 'Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me', 'Disintegration', and 'Wish'.
Quick Facts
- Born
- 29 June 1953
- Birthplace
- Twickenham, Middlesex, England
- Genre
- Rock
- gothic rock
- new wave
- electronic
- synth-pop
- neo-classical
- Occupation
- Record producer
- Years active
- 1976–present
Lore & Background
David M. Allen's connection with The Cure began during a period of creative expansion. His approach to production—balancing clarity with atmospheric depth—became a defining element of the band's mid-80s sound. The singles from this era—'The Caterpillar', 'Inbetween Days', 'Close to Me', 'Why Can't I Be You', 'Catch', 'Just Like Heaven', 'Hot Hot Hot'—all bear his engineering and mixing signature. Allen's meticulous work with reverb and spatial placement created the album's immersive soundscape. The singles 'Lullaby', 'Lovesong', 'Fascination Street', 'Pictures of You', and 'Never Enough' showcase his ability to make dense arrangements feel airy and emotional. Though never an official band member, Allen's engineering and mixing on these seven albums made him a crucial part of The Cure's most celebrated period.
Reader's Guide
David M. He also worked on the singles from these albums, including 'The Caterpillar', 'Inbetween Days', 'Close to Me', 'Why Can't I Be You', 'Catch', 'Just Like Heaven', 'Hot Hot Hot', 'Lullaby', 'Lovesong', 'Fascination Street', 'Pictures of You', 'Never Enough', 'High', 'A Letter to Elise', and 'Friday I'm in Love'. His role was primarily as engineer and mixer, not producer in the traditional sense, but his contributions were essential to the band's sound. After 'Wish', Allen's direct work with The Cure ended, though his influence on their legacy remains significant. He also created Blank Multimedia in 1994, which operated from the home of XFM from 1995 to 1997, and designed websites for Chrysalis and Rough Trade Records.
More in Band Members & Collaborators
Elsewhere in The Cure
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced