The Cure – Greatest Hits (2001) Japanese SHM-CD is a high-fidelity reissue of the band's definitive compilation. This specific edition is highly sought after by audiophiles for its Super High Material (SHM) construction, which uses a polycarbonate plastic originally developed for LCD screens to improve data reading and sound transparency. Release & Background Original Release: November 7, 2001 (Japan), five days before its UK debut. This was the final album obligated by contract for their longtime label, Fiction Records.
Key Features
(Super High Material CD) edition. This release represents a pivotal moment in the band's history, marking the end of their long-standing relationship with Fiction Records Why the 2001 Japanese Edition is Unique Greatest Hits The Cure - Greatest Hits -2001 SHM-CD Japan- FLAC
The sonic result: A "darker" background, tighter bass, smoother high frequencies, and improved stereo separation compared to the standard 2001 pressing.
The 2001 Japanese SHM-CD is a premium release known for high-quality materials and enhanced audio playback. The Cure – Greatest Hits (2001) Japanese SHM-CD
For those who have digitized this rare Japanese import into FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), you are getting the best of both worlds: the uncompromised audio quality of the SHM-CD with the convenience of digital playback. Unlike MP3s, FLAC preserves every bit of data, ensuring that the "breathless claustrophobia" of "Close to Me" or the "glitzy swirls" of "Just Say Yes" sound exactly as intended. Final Verdict CCR and top hits on vinyl records - Facebook
While the album originally launched in November 2001, high-end reissues like the SHM-CD (Super High Material CD) released through Universal Music Japan (Catalog No. UICY-90872) have become highly sought after by collectors. This was the final album obligated by contract
The "SHM-CD" (Super High Material CD) specification is the primary differentiator for this Japanese release. Developed by JVC and Universal Music Japan, SHM-CD technology utilizes a different polycarbonate material in the disc's manufacturing process. This material is intended to be more transparent to the laser pickup of a CD player, theoretically reducing errors and jitter in the reading process.