British rock legends The Cure are often classified as gothic rock, but they themselves defy labels. Since their formation in 1976, they have haunted their fans with a unique brand of dreamy, melancholic post-punk that’s still very relevant even today.

It’s interesting to watch Robert Smith’s signature look develop as well. He didn’t always have the crazy hairstyle and lipstick that we so distinctly remember him with today. This gallery showcases the lineage of the band from their early pre-goth-look days in the late '70s to their '80s heyday.

Let yourself be swept into the gloomy and atmospheric vibes of this classic band as you check out these photos of music’s greatest brooders, The Cure.