What is the best The Cure album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" (1987). It's the most representative of what makes The Cure worth hearing.

What are the best The Cure albums?

The essential The Cure albums include "Bestival Live 2011", "Jumping Someone Else's Train" (1979), "Boys Don't Cry" (1979), "Three Imaginary Boys" (1979) and "Boys Don't Cry" (1980).

How many albums does The Cure have?

The Cure has 92 releases in their discography, including 17 albums and 7 EPs.

Photo: momento mori from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia · CC BY 2.0

The Cure

Q: Who is The Cure for?

If you're into alternative rock and new wave, The Cure is worth your time. Propelled by steady grooves and layered textures, The Cure's music builds tension while embracing spaciousness, allowing emotions to resonate within each carefully crafted moment.

Propelled by steady grooves and layered textures, The Cure's music builds tension while embracing spaciousness, allowing emotions to resonate within each carefully crafted moment.

alternative rock · gothic rock · new wave · post-punk

United Kingdom Est. 1976

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Start here

The album

Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me album by The Cure

Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me (1987)

Offers a diverse mix of styles that capture The Cure's essence, showcasing their range within a cohesive listening experience.

The song

“Just Like Heaven”

An engaging track with a memorable melody that encapsulates The Cure's sound, making it a strong standalone introduction.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"The Kiss" — from Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me (1987)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Shake Dog Shake" — from The Top (1984)

accessible entry with immediate hook
3

"Boys Don’t Cry" — from The Cure - Greatest Hits (2001)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"In Between Days" — from The Head on the Door (1985)

accessible entry with immediate hook
5

"Three Imaginary Boys (Help Me mix 2018)" — from Torn Down – Mixed Up Extras 2018 (2018)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Lullaby (extended mix)" — from Mixed Up (1990)

establishes the sonic palette early

About The Cure

The Cure occupies a significant space in the musical landscape, acting as a bridge for emotional vulnerability and stylistic exploration within alternative rock.

Their ability to navigate themes of love, loss, and existential introspection has resonated deeply, creating an enduring connection with listeners who find solace in their raw honesty and melodic invention. The band's influence is palpable; they have paved the way for countless artists to embrace authenticity over polish, redefining what it means to be both introspective and widely impactful. At the core of The Cure's approach is a willingness to blend haunting melodies with innovative soundscapes, often layering textures that can evoke both melancholy and euphoria. This sonic experimentation allows them to craft immersive experiences, where each song feels like a journey through complex emotional terrains. Their use of atmosphere not only enhances their lyrical narratives but also sets a precedent for future bands looking to explore similar depths. Lyrically, The Cure often delves into themes of alienation and yearning, employing a tone that balances sincerity with moments of irony. Their storytelling tends to weave impressionistic snapshots rather than straightforward narratives, inviting listeners to project their own experiences onto the music. This reflective quality encourages an intimate dialogue between the artist and the audience, fostering deeper connections.

17 studio albums· 92 total releases· 4 decades· United Kingdom