The Cure

Although formed in 1976, it took a while for The Cure to find their sound and niche. Fronted by vocalist Robert Smith, the band were attached to the post-punk goth scene of Siouxsie & The Banshees and released several singles that generated a modest but dedicated following. With a penchant for dark themes and stark markup, Smith’s hypnotic non-charisma lead the band to increasing success, with 1982’s Pornography being a top 10 album in the UK.

Non-album single "Let’s go to bed" (1982) indicated a greater pop sensibility, as did "Love cats" the following year, yet The Cure remained eclectic in style and unstable in line-up. The Wish, released in 1992, was certified gold in the UK and platinum in Australia while making it to #2 in the US, the band’s best showing there.

The Cure are a fine example of an 'Alternate' band who managed to cross over to commercial success while still retaining the respect and enthusiasm (for the most part) of their original followers. Their influence can be heard in the work of Smashing Pumpkins and Interpol, while Robert Smith is perhaps the most enduring image of the Goth sub-culture.