British rock band formed in Bradford in 1983, evolving from frontman Ian Astbury's earlier group Southern Death Cult. Lineup centered on Astbury (vocals) and guitarist Billy Duffy. Multiple bassists and drummers across the years.
The band's style shifted from gothic post-punk on Dreamtime (1984) to anthemic hard rock on Love (1985) and Electric (1987, produced by Rick Rubin). Sonic Temple (1989) became their commercial peak. Dissolved in 1995 after The Cult (1994); reformed in 1999. Ten studio albums total. Astbury also briefly fronted the surviving members of the Doors in the early 2000s.
