Not many bands can assert that they are the driving force behind an entire genre and musical movement, but The Cure certainly can. Their unique sound has left an indelible mark on the music landscape, influencing countless artists and fans alike.

Their pioneering post-punk sound emerged with their 1979 debut album, Three Imaginary Boys, which subsequently evolved into a darker, more atmospheric form of music with their second LP, the following year’s Seventeen Seconds. This transformation laid the groundwork for the goth subgenre, characterized by its profound melancholia and somber themes. As a result, they inspired a generation of introspective youth, often termed ‘sad-sack kids,’ and, regrettably, a plethora of less impactful music over the ensuing decades.

However, The Cure was just getting started. As the 1980s progressed, so did the band, led by the iconic Robert Smith since its inception. By the end of the decade, their sonic exploration had taken them into fresh territories, including elements of psychedelic rock, jangly alt-rock, and even cheerful pop melodies, showcasing their versatility and evolution.

Over the years, the band has released more than a dozen albums, seamlessly navigating through various styles and genres. This eclectic journey is documented in the list of Cure Albums Ranked Worst to Best below. While they faced some challenges along the way, albums like 1984’s stark The Top were crucial stepping stones to achieving the heights of The Head on the Door, Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me, and Disintegration, which are now considered classics.

Their remarkable influence endures even four decades later, with iconic tracks like “Killing an Arab,” “Boys Don’t Cry,” and “Jumping Someone Else’s Train” introducing their revolutionary sound to a global audience. Their 2019 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame may not mark the end of their illustrious career, but it certainly validates a rich musical catalog that has significantly shaped the evolution of modern music.